Unfortunately Cathy Fogel’s father, Dennis Mitchell, passed away last Friday. At this stage in our lives, so many of us have experienced the pain of losing a parent. In knowing this, please pray for Cathy, her mom, and the rest of her family as they feel the sadness, exhaustion, and introspection of mourning the loss of someone so close. If anyone wants to send a personal card of condolence to Cathy her address is: 580 Lois Dr, Akron, OH. 44333. Below is his obituary:

Dennis Lee Mitchell passed away on August 8, 2025 surrounded by his loving family at the age of 93. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on February 15, 1932 to Irving and Elizabeth Mitchell, both of blessed memory. Dennis was a graduate of Cleveland Heights High School and attended Cleveland College until he was drafted into the army in 1953, where he served as a motion picture photographer in the signal corps, taking pictures of test rockets and missiles at White Sands Proving Ground. When he returned from service in 1955 he worked full time with his father, in the family photography business, Mitchell Studio, until he took over the business in 1961.

Dennis met his wife Florence Rosewater (Flossy) on a blind date that neither of them wanted to attend. Luckily they hit it off and were married a year and a half later. They had a wonderful 64 year marriage where they raised two daughters, several dogs, a bird and a few goldfish.  

Together Dennis and Flossy had a beautiful life filled with travel, weightlifting meets, swim meets, Torah study and friendships with people from near and far.  Long time members of Suburban Temple Kol-Ami, Dennis served as an usher and participated in Vintage Suburban where he helped plan and organize senior outings and programs. 

Dennis’s passion was weightlifting.  He began weightlifting at the age of 11 and continued throughout his life.  He was recognized for competing 70 continuous years, only stopping in 2020 at the time of the Pandemic.  He was inducted into the USAWA (United States All-Around Weightlifting  Association) hall of fame in 1998 and  acknowledged in 2018 for lifting in 29 consecutive meets which was the most of any lifter in the history of the association. He was the oldest competitor at nationals that year.  He holds 28 world records in all-round lifting and also participated in many olympic lifting meets.  He participated in events worldwide and created many international friendships. He has mentored numerous new lifers and inspired others to pursue their interest in the sport. He served as the head of the International All-Around Technical Committee and held the offices of treasurer and secretary of the Ohio Olympic Weightlifting Committee. 

Dennis was not a one sport individual.  Over the years he participated in numerous athletic events. In college he participated in gymnastics and competed in judo.  As an adult he was a member of Ohio Masters swim team competing for many years and also competed in distance running.  He was a long time member of the JCC, which was like his second home, where he swam and was a member of the running club.

Dennis was also an avid gardener.  He grew plants from seeds in the basement and had a magnificent flower garden. Later he also had a flourishing vegetable garden, not wanting his children to think that green beans came from a can.  Additionally he was an accomplished musician which, over the years, had an impact on his children’s and grandchildren’s lives, much as his dedication to fitness and health served as a role model for all of them. 

Dennis will be greatly missed by his wife Flossy, his children Cathy Fogle (Ron), Judy Mitchell-Loeb (Jim Loeb) and his grandchildren Russell Fogle, Erin Fogle (Cale Post), Jason Loeb and Jonathan Loeb.  He was preceded in death by his brother Arnold Mitchell ,(Jean).

Funeral services will be held as Suburban Temple Kol-Ami, 22401 Chagrin Blvd. Beachwood, Ohio 44122, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery. Family will receive friends at Suburban Temple on Wednesday until 4:00 following internment.  Shiva will continue on Wednesday from 6:00-8:00, Thursday from 1:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00, and Sunday from 1:00-4:00 at the Loeb residence, 34232 Summerset Drive, Solon Ohio 44139.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cleveland JCC, the Suburban Temple Kol-Ami, or USAWA (United States all-around weightlifting association).

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As if the loss of Kathy Jesser’s step-grandson, Kai, wasn’t enough, her mother, Alberta Edgerly, passed away last Friday. Below is her obituary. If you would like to send a personal card, Kathy’s address is 2943 Pepper Hill Circle, Akron, Ohio 44312.

ALBERTA RAE EDGERLY

March 15, 1928 — June 13, 2025

Alberta “Bert” Edgerly (Kernen), our beloved Mother, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother has been embraced and taken up with the Lord Jesus Christ, June 13, 2025. In March 2025, we gathered and celebrated Alberta’s 97th Birthday with family returning from across the country.

Alberta graduated from North High School, Class of 1947 and married Clark Edgerly. They celebrated 63 years of marriage before Clark’s passing in 2011. They attended the Evangelical United Brethren Church of Akron which merged with the Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist Church for 40 years. They were both active in the Church and had many friends.

In addition to being a wife and mother to 3 children, she worked to make ends meet. The highlight of her working career was her position with the University of Akron as an assistant coordinator of Veteran Educational Services for the returning Vietnam Veterans of which she enjoyed immensely the work and the returning Vets. As Grandparents, Clark and Alberta both greatly enjoyed their grandchildren and watched them grow into adults. As a Great-Grandmother, she greatly appreciated and loved her great-grandchildren.

Alberta leaves her children, Roger (Barbara) Edgerly, Kathryn Jesser (Edgerly), and Jeff Edgerly; grandchildren, Kyle (Portia) Edgerly, Ryan (Kelly) Edgerly, Christine Jesser, Andrew (Gina) Jesser, Rachel (Nate) Fisher, Michael (Becky) Edgerly; 8 great-grandchildren; her dear companion and cousin, Karen Gonder; sole surviving in-law and friend, Ruth Darling (Edgerly); and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Alberta was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clark (3/2011); greatly loved grandson, Timothy Jesser (2002); parents, Thomas and Rachael (Gonder) Kernen; and her brothers, Bill, Keith, and Bud Kernen.

Alberta has resided at Copeland Oaks for the past 19 years where she has dominated the Euchre tables and has had many friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 10 am – 12 noon, followed by a 12 noon funeral service at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, Ohio 44305, 330-784-3334. Interment at Northlawn Memorial Gardens.

As with Dad, in lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Copeland Oaks Life Care Fund, 715 S. Johnson Rd, Sebring, Ohio 44672.

Kathy Jesser (trombone) received painful news earlier this week. Kai Grant was the step-son of Kathy’s son. Unfortunately, he unexpectantly passed away this week. Below is his obituary. He sounds like he was a fine young man. If you would like to send Kathy a card, her address is: 2943 Pepper Hill Circle, Akron, OH. 44312.

Kai James Grant

June 29, 2005 — June 8, 2025

Kai James Grant

June 29, 2005 – June 8, 2025

With deep love and heartbreaking sorrow, we announce the passing of Kai James Grant, 19, of Green, Ohio. Kai left this world far too soon on June 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of fierce loyalty, bold conviction, and unforgettable presence.

Born on June 29, 2005, Kai was a 2023 graduate of Green High School and was pursuing a degree in Political Science at The Ohio State University. A bright mind with a passionate heart, Kai was known for being an outspoken advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. He had a gift for challenging the status quo with courage, humor, and conviction.

Kai was a protective and loving brother, always watching out for his siblings with a mix of wisdom and mischief. His competitive streak was legendary—whether in video games, anime debates, or late-night mystery movie marathons, Kai brought intensity and a playful swagger to everything he did. He was sharp, funny, occasionally cocky, and always 100% himself.

Kai is deeply missed by his parents, Regina Jesser, Andy Jesser, William Barnett, and Deszmon Grant; his beloved sisters Kamyl Grant and Brooke Barnett; and his brothers Hayden Barnett and Daven Barnett.

He is also mourned by his grandparents John Simms, Jen Monachino, Eileen Barnett, Bill Barnett, Joel and Delores Sumlin, and Mary Grant; and by his aunts and uncles John, Bri, Matthew and Kimberly Simms, Austin Hall, Crystal, Chris Fiorelli, Pete and James Giles, and Kalesha Grant, as well as countless cousins, extended family members, friends, and peers.

A memorial service to honor Kai’s life will be held Saturday, June 14 at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N Canton Rd, Akron, OH 44305. Calling hours are from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, with a service beginning at 6:00 PM.

Kai died by suicide after a battle that many could not see. Mental health struggles can be quiet and hidden, even in those who seem strong and vibrant. If you are struggling, please know you are not alone. You are deeply needed. You are deeply loved.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out.

Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—available 24/7, free, and confidential.

“A good heart has stopped beating, but a heart that has touched so many lives can’t help but live on in those it loved.”

In Kai’s memory, may we love more openly, speak more honestly, and hold each other with tenderness. His voice and spirit will live on in all of us.

Joyce Evans played the alto sax in the New Horizons Band for years. Her husband, Richard, would come with her and help her set up. He would then patiently wait out by the drinking fountain until band was done. Talking to Rick I was surprised by how far they traveled to come to practice. I admired their devotion to each other. I have to admit I did notice their absence. Unfortunately Joyce passed away this month. Below is her obituary.

Joyce Elaine Evans (Mocher) Obituary

Joyce Elaine Evans (Mocher) has gone home to be with her Savior and Lord Jesus Christ following an extended illness. She now gets to spend eternity worshiping that great God who was so important in her earthly life. Joyce was a 1965 graduate of Canton Lincoln HS and a 1968 graduate of Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. She worked as an R.N. For over 40 years at Canton Mercy, Mercy Medical Center and, for a brief time, at the US Naval Hospital Camp LeJeune NC. She enjoyed running and won many age group awards in her younger years. She loved gardening and playing her Alto Sax. She sang for years in church choirs and the Only By Grace Quartet with dear friends Jane and Mike Petcavage. Her greatest joy in life was her family. Survived by her husband of 56 years Richard, daughters Mary (Robert) Patrick, Janet (Brandon) Mackall, special “daughter” Andrea and granddaughter Sage, seven wonderful grand kids: Alexis, Emma, Robert, Sophia, Kate, Sam, and Sylvia, grand-dog Buxton, brother Steve (Mary) Mocher, and many friends in the Joy Class at Dueber Church “Where Hope Is Found”. Also survived by several siblings scattered across the United States. Special blessings to the dear, dear Christian friends on Fallingbrook Circle that made her final time rich and rewarding. You know who you are.

Her request was for no calling hours or public services. Cremation has taken place and her cremains will be scattered in the place she loved, the Outer Banks of NC. Her family will be gathering at a future date to celebrate her life. The family’s favorite charities include Malone University, Dueber Church, the Louisville YMCA and the many Moody Bible Institute outreach programs.

Kathryn Weaver (violin) recently lost her brother, Tom Schrader. Unfortunately the last couple of years had been very difficult for him, experiencing multiple health problems that eventually led to his passing. Although Kathryn and her family are relieved that Tom no longer is suffering, they definitely are feeling the loss. Please pray for the family.

Below is a copy of his obituary:

Thomas A. Schrader, age 73 of Charlestown, passed away Friday, November 8, 2024.

He was born March 14, 1951, in Ravenna, Ohio, to parents Donald H. and Myrna M. (Weideman) Schrader. Tom graduated from Rootstown High School in 1969. He enlisted in the US Air Force and served for over 10 years, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant, and was a proud veteran of the Vietnam War.

Tom was a long distance truck driver for many years. When he was home, he enjoyed sitting on the back porch with family and his dog, Buddy. Tom was a classic car enthusiast. He also liked to travel, watch old movies, and read. He was a former member of the Rootstown Lions Club.

Tom is survived by his siblings: Kathryn (Robert) Weaver, James (Phyllis) Schrader, and Julie Schomer, along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents.

His wishes for cremation are being honored. Tom will be laid to rest with full military honors on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 10:45 AM at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

It was announced in practice Monday that Andy did pass away on Saturday November 25th. Andy was a longtime member of New Horizons. He played the viola with us, but most of us know him as the guy who allowed New Horizons to enter the 21st century. He was integral in helping us set up the web-site and trouble shooting its issues. He helped us go from paying by mail to paying online. He set up zooming during COVID, and we are still using it. He did our taxes. There’s probably so much more he did that those of us who are technologically challenged don’t even know. Whenever any one of us had a problem with technology, he was the go-to guy. And this is why every one of us knew him. We all needed him.

Andy did not want a funeral or an obituary. Likewise the family does not want any cards, texts, or emails. True to his nature Andy, was an unassuming man … a quiet thoughtful man. He loved New Horizons. And to be honest … he was one of the most significant and respected individuals of our group. He will be so missed.

John Burkey is the husband of Sue Burkey who plays violin with us. It has been awhile since we have seen Sue, which is understandable; family comes first. Unfortunately John originally had Parkinson’s disease and within the last 2 years he developed multiple problems. As the number and frequency of issues increased, it became apparent that recovering was not possible. He passed away Thanksgiving morning. John left behind Sue and two of his siblings. Please pray for God to provide peace and comfort to this family

Below is John’s obituary:

John H. Burkey

January 29, 1950 — November 23, 2023

John H. Burkey, age 73, passed away on November 23, 2023 at Aultman Hospital.

He was born on January 29, 1950, in Alliance, to Frank and Edna (Simmons) Burkey.

John graduated from Marlington High School in 1968. He was employed for 35 years servicing and installing elevators and escalators. He was a member of The Chapel in Marlboro.

John loved to fish and did so year round. He also enjoyed camping, hunting, gardening and riding his motorcycle with his wife, Sue.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 47 years, Sue (Myers) Burkey; his sister, Susan Haase; and brother, Frank.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert; and nephew, Glenn.  

Per John’s wishes, no services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation, P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21740.To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John H. Burkey, please visit our flower store.

Although it has been a few years, some of you may remember Nancy Sauer who played with New Horizons in the flute section. Unfortunately she passed away Friday August 5th, 2022. The obituary is posted below:

February 12, 1941 ~ August 5, 2022 (age 81

Obituary

Miss Nancy Sauer, age 81, passed away on August 5, 2022 at the Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center. Nancy was born in Pittsburgh, PA to the late William and Pearl Sauer.

Along with her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by a sister, Marilou Sauer.

A graduate of the University of Akron, Nancy pursued a 38-year career as an elementary school teacher, educating thousands of students in the Ellett (Hatton) and Manchester systems. Passionate about teaching, she continued as a reading specialist for 4 more years in the Akron system.

An enthusiastic tennis player, she played and organized leagues over 50 years and counted those women as some of her best friends. An accomplished pianist, she also played the flute in the New Horizons band, making numerous friends through that organization.

Nancy is survived by her brother, William, of Chicago, as well as numerous cousins in the Akron and Columbus areas.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 from 10 AM to 11 AM at the Hummel Funeral Home, 500 E. Exchange Street, Akron. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM on Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 100 E. Waterloo Road, Akron.

Early this morning, Carrie Cunningham’s (clarinet) sister, Barbara Tomsello, passed away after a lengthy illness. Barb was Carrie’s older sister and the last remaining sibling. Barb left behind her husband, Tony, and 2 children, as well as 5 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. Carrie mentioned the family was not planning on a funeral service or calling hours but may at some point arrange a memorial time for family members. .

Although the family realizes she is at peace and no longer struggling, please pray for God’s comfort as they deal with this loss.

If you would like to send Carrie a card her address is: 49 Wynstone Dr., Mogadore, OH 44260. Below is her obituary:

Barbara “Barb” J. (Fisher) Tomsello

September 22, 1946 ~ August 6, 2022 (age 75)

Obituary

Barbara “Barb” J. Tomsello (nee Fisher), age 75, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at home with loved ones. Barb resided in Barberton and was born in Portage County, living her entire life in Northeast Ohio. Preceded in death by her parents, Clive and Mareta Fisher, as well as brothers, Kenneth (Lynn) and Ronald (KIA Vietnam). She is also preceded by her first husband, Carl Veppert, the father of her children. Barb is survived by her husband of 31 years, Anthony “Tony” Tomsello; kid sister, Carrie (Jeff) Cunningham; children, Wendy (Dick) Phillips and Brian (Sue) Veppert; grandchildren, Kyle (Adrienne), Kevin (Rachel) and Colin Phillips and Clair and Abby Veppert as well as great-grandson, Cole Phillips, many nieces and nephews, step children, Ryan and Danny Tomsello and special aunt, Mary Lou Silvers. Cremation has taken place with internment at Hillside Memorial Park with a celebration of life in the near future….. while Barb lovingly looks upon us and does her word searches.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara “Barb” J. (Fisher) Tomsello, please visit our floral store.