Chester Facing Salt Shortage
By emma macNiveN macNiveN@kaRlovecmedia com
Winter has hit Geauga County hard, with Chester Township, like others, currently facing a salt shortage.
“It's definitely due to the weather. We've already reduced the salt as many other townships in the county have reduced salting, like side roads and stuff,” said Trustee Craig Richter, following a Jan. 29 special meeting. “But, if we end up with a major snowstorm, we're going to need salt.”
Richter said Chester Township bases its salt purchases on the prior year and all the townships have been using more salt this year than anticipated.
“Everybody's running low on salt … except maybe the county because they have the facilities to store a lot more salt,” he said.
During last Wednesday’s meeting,
West Geauga Names New Head Football Coach
Staff RepoRt
West Geauga announced that Rossi Santo will be the Wolverines' next head football coach.
“We could not be more excited to welcome Rossi to West Geauga,” Athletic Director Brandon Stewart said. “Throughout the hiring process, we met with several very talented coaches but Rossi stood out with his knowledge of the game, his passion to provide a positive experience for our student-athletes and the high character that he possesses as a father, teacher and coach.”
Santo's resume lists the last five seasons as an assistant coach with Kirtland Hornets, one of the most successful football programs in Ohio.
Under the leadership of seven-time state champion head coach Tiger LaVerde, the Hornets posted an 85-4 overall record with six appearances in the OHSAA State Championship game including three state titles.
“First of all, Rossi is a great hu-
man being who cares about kids,” Coach LaVerde said. “Rossi loves the game of football, he is passionate about competition. He brings great energy and enthusiasm everyday. He treats kids well and they all love him. I am really excited for him, and I believe he will be very successful at West G.”
Prior to Kirtland, Santo worked alongside head coach Dave Bors for four seasons at Riverside High School. During that time, Riverside appeared in the Regional Semi-Finals three times and won the Western Reserve Conference.
“Not only because of my relationship with Coach Santo, but also because of my first-hand experience with the Wolverines Community, this is a fantastic hire,” Coach Bors said. “Coach Santo is more than ready to lead his own program. He is passionate and highly driven, and I know he will
work tirelessly to ensure success both on and off the field as well as providing an overall great experience for the student-athletes."
High School Principal Ryan Patti also had high praise for the new football coach.
“We're thrilled to welcome Coach Santo to the West Geauga family,” he said. “His proven track record of success, combined with his background as an intervention specialist, aligns perfectly with our mission of de veloping well-rounded student-ath letes. Coach Santo's experience with successful programs like Kirtland and Riverside, along with his commitment to building posi tive relationships with students, makes him an excellent fit for leading our football program into the future.”
Santo was an All-Ohio stand out defensive back and All-Ohio
Students Participate in First Round of Spelling Bee
Community Meetings
Listed are upcoming public meetings and executive sessions for February 2025. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices. Chester Township: Feb. 19, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Feb. 20, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted. Russell Township: Feb. 20, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; Feb. 26, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Santo
Lindsey Elementary and West Geauga Middle School held their annual building spelling bees, with winners advancing to the district competition.
After many rounds, Michael Franceschini secured first place and will represent West Geauga at the Geauga County Spelling Bee.
Town Crier
WG Kiwanis Pancake Breakfasts
Volunteers are needed for the Kiwanis Club of West Geauga’s 72nd annual all-youcan-eat pancake breakfasts being held the first four Sundays in March at West Geauga High School. Volunteer individually or as a group.
For more information, call Les Scott 440221-0112 or email wgkiwanis@me.com.
Bloodmobile
Feb. 19, 1-6 p.m.
American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at Mayfield Church, 7747 Mayfield Road, Chester Township. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to make an appointment.
Outreach Spaghetti Dinner
Feb. 20, 6-7 p.m.
Christ Presbyterian Church offers free drive-thru spaghetti and meatball dinners the third Thursday of each month. Salad and dessert are included. The church is located at 12419 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.
Woodland Wednesdays
Feb. 20, 6-8 p.m.
Join Woodland Wednesdays on a Thursday for an annual update regarding Current Agricultural Use Value (CAUV) and Ohio Forestry Tax Law (OFTL) tax reduction programs at the Deerfield Town Hall.
The evening will also include updates on the timber market and conclude with a “Feeling Edgy?” presentation to provide guidance on how to manage the transition zones between crop fields and woodlands.
The program is free, but registration is required; visit geaugaswcd.com or call 330235-6815.
Young of Heart
Feb. 21, 11:30 a.m.
Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Bring a brown bag lunch. Snacks and beverages are provided. Entertainment will be by Polka Jake from the Chardon Polka Band.
A trip has been planned to the Tulip Festival in Holland, Mich., on May 6-8. Included are Veldheer’s Tulip Gardens, Dutch Village, an evening revue show and tours of Holland, Windmill Island Gardens and DeZwaan windmill and more. Final payment is due by Feb. 28. Call Kimber at 440-688-3293 or Kit at 216-543-4442 to reserve a spot.
Annual dues are payable now. Meetings are canceled if the West Geauga Schools are closed because of weather.
CV Herb Society Meets
Feb. 21, 12:30 p.m.
The Chagrin Valley Herb Society will meet at the Bainbridge Library. Light refreshments will be followed by a presentation about ferns from Auburn Pointe Greenhouse & Flowers. To RSVP, email chagrinvalleyherbsociety@gmail.com. Learn more about the organization at chagrinvalleyherbsociety. org or on Facebook.
Gardening 101
Feb. 22, 10 a.m. to noon
Geauga County Master Gardener Volunteers are offering a free, four-part Gardening 101 series for those interested in vegetable and fruit gardening. The classes will be held in the Patterson Center at the Geauga County Extension Office, 14269 Claridon-Troy Road, Burton. The series opens with “Site Selection and Preparation.” Future sessions are “Seed Selection and Planting Plan” on March
29; “Working and Maintaining the Garden” on May 3; and “Harvesting and Preserving Your Bounty” on May 22.
Registration is required; call 440-8344656. Attend one class or all four. For more information, visit geauga.osu.edu.
Free Community Lunch
Feb. 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All are welcome to attend a free community lunch presented by the Women’s League of St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township.
LCGS Meeting
Feb. 27, 10 a.m.
The Lake County Genealogical Society (LCGS) will meet via Zoom. Following a brief business meeting, Mary Jamba will present "Where are They? Strategies for Navigating Challenging Names in Databases." Visit www. lcgsohio.org for more information and an invitation to the Zoom meeting by Feb. 25.
Food Pantry Open
Feb. 28, 10 a.m. to noon
The food pantry at the Chester Christian Center church is open to anyone in the community in need of food. One does not need to be a member of the church to attend. The church is located at 11815 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.
Free Community Dinner
Feb. 28, 5-6:30 p.m.
Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting dinner at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township. Carryout is available.
West Geauga Kiwanis Meetings
Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m.
West Geauga Kiwanis meets every Tuesday at the Chesterland Baptist Church, 12670 Chillicothe Road. Join for a free dinner and learn how Kiwanis serves local students and the community. Learn more at wgkiwanis.org.
Geauga Park District
For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Call for Entries
Geauga Park District is now accepting entries into its 30th annual Nature Writing Contest – nature-inspired poetry and prose by creative writers of any age.
Download a contest application from the park district website under News & Updates or pick one up at The West Woods Nature Center, Big Creek Park’s Meyer Center or any in-county library.
Entries must be received by Earth Day, April 22, to qualify. Age categories in both poetry and prose are adult age 18 and older, adolescent ages 12-17 and child ages 11 and under.
Upon winning, writers earn cash prizes;
an invitation to a special winners’ celebration in July at Claridon Woodlands; publication in the park district’s winners chapbook and park district website; and recognition in the park district’s summer activity guide. Last year’s contest attracted a record-breaking 351 entries. Questions? Email Sandy at sward@geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Count The Birds
Become an official citizen scientist by participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count, a worldwide count coordinated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society. For more information, visit gbbc.birdcount.org.
Geauga Park District’s counting will be conducted at The West Woods Nature Center Feb. 14-16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals
The Geauga County Department on Aging is in need of volunteer Home Delivered Meal (HDM) drivers in Russell Township on Mondays. The meal routes start at the West Geauga Center, 8090 Cedar Road in Chester Township.
The HDM program delivers warm, nutritious lunches from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday, to homebound senior citi-
zens in the community.
Area agencies, organizations, church groups and individuals 18 years old or older, with a valid driver’s license, may volunteer. Volunteers can deliver meals on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or as needed/substitute basis. To sign up or for any questions, contact Nathan Gorton at 440-279-2138 or email at NGorton@co.geauga.oh.us.
Scholarships Offered
PGP Offers Scholarships
Protect Geauga Parks is offering its eighth annual Bob McCullough Memorial Conservation Scholarships to assist Geauga County high school seniors who will be attending two or four-year colleges, as well as those interested in pursuing non-degree technical programs that focus on environmental sustainability.
Three scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded. Applications are due by midnight March 16.
Visit ProtectGeaugaParks.us for application information and eligibility.
Questions? Email info.protectgeaugaparks@gmail.com.
Farm Bureau Scholarships
Geauga County Farm Bureau is offering scholarship opportunities to students pursuing post-high school education. The number of acceptable qualifying applications determines the scholarship amount.
Applicants do not have to be enrolled in an agricultural field of study. The scoring system places a higher emphasis on applicants with agricultural involvement, as well as
Farm Bureau involvement and membership history. Prior recipients may reapply.
The applicant must be either a current Geauga County Farm Bureau member or a family member whose parents/guardian is a current Geauga County Farm Bureau member at the time of applying and at the time of scholarship payout.
Applicants must be a part-time or a fulltime enrollee of an accredited two or fouryear college, university or technical school. For first-year students, the applicant must prove enrollment or admission status.
Recipients of a scholarship or a representative must attend the Farm Bureau annual meeting held in September. If unable to attend, the county board/office must be notified at least 24 hours before. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of the scholarship.
The fillable form is available online at www.geaugafb.org or by emailing geauga@ ofbf.org. No handwritten forms will be accepted.
Applications must be submitted by March 31.
For more information, contact the county Farm Bureau office at 440-426-2195.
Arts & Entertainment
Open Studios
Feb. 15, 3-5 p.m.
Fairmount Center for the Arts announces a new event series that encourages families to make art-filled memories together.
Held at its Russell Township and Chardon locations, Open Studios centers around a theme and will offer a variety of hands-on performing and visual arts activities for all ages. February’s theme is Valentine’s Day at Fairmount in Russell.
Advance reservations are recommended for the free series by calling 440-338-3171 or visiting fairmountcenter.org.
Fairmount Speaker Series
Feb. 23, 3-4 p.m.
Fairmount Center for the Arts continues its Pull Back the Curtain speaker series with “Celebrating Fairmount’s Spanish Dancers” at the center located at 8400 Fairmount Road in Russell Township.
Discover the beauty and majesty of Spanish dance with a special talk and performance led by Sandi Bohl, Spanish Dance Co. director.
Light refreshments will be served. Ad-
vance reservations are recommended for the free lectures by calling 440-338-3171 or visiting fairmountcenter.org.
8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5
Chesterland, Ohio 44026
Phone
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Battle of 306
The Wolverines are ready to rumble in the second annual Battle of 306, with proceeds benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Charities.
West Geauga and Kirtland high schools have teamed up this year with the Ronald Mc Donald House Charities for a donation drive, with a competitive twist to see which school can collect the most items. In the culminat ing event, Kirtland students will travel down state Route 306 to West Geauga to compete in a series of minute-to-win-it-type challenges to determine the winner of the Principal's Cup trophy.
The district needs the community’s help. Consider supporting the Ronald Mc Donald House by donating items from the WG Battle of 306 Amazon Wishlist, which can be found on the district website: www. westg.org. Purchased items can either be dropped off at the high school main office or shipped to West Geauga High School, 13401 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, OH 44026, through Feb. 21.
The West Geauga High School baseball team hosted a youth baseball clinic, sharing their skills, tips and love for the game with the next generation of players. The days were filled with teamwork, learning and fun as young athletes honed their skills alongside their role models.
Power of the Pen
First Tech Challenge
West Geauga High School students recently participated in the First Tech Challenge qualifier. The students worked hard to build and code their robots to tackle tasks like picking up and hanging blocks. They competed in six intense rounds and showed off their skills and teamwork.
Thank you to Rockwell Automation for its sponsorship of the West G team and to Kirtland High School for its mentorship, as it was West Geauga’s first time competing.
The West Geauga Middle School Power of the Pen teams recently competed at the district tournament hosted by University School. The seventh-grade team took first place. Individually, team members Hannah Nevar took first place, Vanessa Winningham took third place and Cora Duxbury scooped up fifth place. The eighth-grade team faced tough competition, but Ellie Pierson took home seventh place individually.
Once all of the points are tabulated, addi tional students may also be eligible to move forward to the regional tournament in March.
Real Estate Transfers
Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the week ending Jan. 31 and period Feb. 3-5, 2025, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Robert M. Sholtis II, 12378 Harold Drive, to Adrienne Fleck, $235,000. (1.00 acres) AC&J Properties LLC, 12568 Ward Drive, to Mary Ellen Struze, $242,500. (0.48 acres)
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP
Blue Moon Stables LLC, 8782 Kinsman Road, to Red Raider Stables LLC, $805,000. (22.18 acres)
Fair Board Looks to Construct New Barn, Sales Arena
Staff RepoRt
The Geauga County Fair Board is looking to construct a poultry barn and an indoor sales arena on the southeast side of the fairgrounds in Burton, fair secretary Meg Noah said in an email Jan. 28.
“The number of poultry projects has been increasing every year. In 2024, there were 395 poultry market projects that went through the livestock sale and over 600 poultry projects which include fancy chickens, ducks, pigeons, guineas, geese and turkeys,” she said. “We have been outgrowing the current poultry barn and for the 2024 fair, we had to split the poultry between the poultry barn and add a new turkey tent, plus expand the small animal livestock sale tent.”
The board has been faced with the possibility of limiting Junior Fair youth poultry projects due to the constraints, she said.
An indoor facility would allow for better accessibility for shows and auctions, and could have off-season rentals and winter parking, Noah said, noting a tent would not be ideal due to issues with weather and accessibility.
The venues would play host to Junior Fair market livestock projects and fancy livestock projects, open show livestock exhibits, livestock shows and the small animal livestock sale auction, she said.
“This project falls directly within our mission, which is to promote and encourage agriculture in Geauga County,” Noah said.
Dog Shelter Temporarily Closed Due to Canine Distemper Case
Staff RepoRt
The Geauga County Dog Shelter will be closed for another week after a stray dog at the shelter tested positive for canine distemper, a contagious virus spread through saliva and other secretions, Geauga County Dog Warden Matt Granito said in a Feb. 3 news release.
“To protect the health and safety of our animals, we are placing four dogs under a two-week observation period to monitor for any signs of infection,” Granito said. “Following veterinary guidance, the shelter will be
Salt from page 1
trustees approved the purchase of 500 more tons of salt from its contractor, Cargill, which they plan to roll out in two 250-ton increments.
The township’s original contract cost $45 per ton. The new contract for the additional salt costs $65 per ton, Richter said, adding salt continues to go up in price.
In other business, trustees also discussed replacing the Chester Road Department building, which Richter said was built in 1948.
“We went out for a bid … to just replace the roof. It's a flat roof, so it just has tons of issues, and we were going to do a peak,” Richter said in a follow-up interview.
He said they originally expected the cost
temporarily closed for the next two weeks as a precaution.”
During the closure, the dog warden’s office will continue to respond to complaints and fulfill all of its statutory obligations, said Granito.
Stray dogs will be housed at an alternative location, which is currently being arranged, he added.
“We strongly urge all pet owners to be extra vigilant in keeping their dogs contained and preventing them from running loose, as our ability to take additional animals is currently limited,” Granito said.
to be $350,000, but it came back between $550,000 and $600,000, not including softcosts.
“Why invest what will probably be … $650,000 when you can invest $1 million and get a brand new building,” he asked, adding the building is poorly maintained.
Last week, trustees also voted to increase cemetery burial costs to $675 between the hours 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. in order to compensate the road department for overtime. Burials from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. will still remain the previous $575.
Trustees talked about getting pricing for hard pack gravel at Chester’s Recycle Park at 12535 Chillicothe Road.
“We are going to try to dig out the entrance and exit,” Richter said in a follow-up interview, adding the costs will be covered by a grant.
Coach from page 1
basketball player at Kirtland High School. He played defensive back, receiver and was a kick returner on the Div. V state runner-up team. He played collegiately for one-season at Edinboro University.
In 2022, Santo was selected as one of the coaches for the News Herald Senior Bowl.
“I am thankful for the opportunity at
West G,” Santo said. “I am eager to get started with Wolverines football. I am excited to lead these student-athletes and build a positive culture within the program.”
Santo has spent the last 11 years as an Intervention Specialist with the Riverside School District. He and his wife Emily have two children and live in Mentor.
A “Meet the Coach” night will be announced in the coming days to give our community, parents and student-athletes the opportunity to meet Coach Santo and his family.
Perennial Gardeners Dig into Soil Painting with Geauga SWCD
SUBMITTED
Perennial Gardeners of Chesterland members Emily Ponti, left, and Kay Eckman display their paintings during a “Soil FUNdamentals” program with Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District. The coloring page was created by Rachel Ignotofsky and the paints were derived from different soil types.
Christina Livers
Christina “Chris” Livers (nee Kendzior) passed away peacefully on Jan. 31, 2025. She was 84 years old.
Chris loved her husband, daughter, family, friends, neighbors, township and country, and had a faith in God and in the journey she was on that was marked by fearlessness, positive thinking and compassion for others.
Chris is survived by her daughter, Maria Livers; her dear cousins and sisters- and brothers-in-law; nieces and nephews; Godsons; and many family members, friends and colleagues.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph A. “Fred” Livers Jr.; father, Stanley “Tony” Kendzior; mother, Regina D. Ames (nee Skomski); stepfather, Francis “Frank” Ames; grandparents, Joseph J. Skomski and Helen Laboy Skomski; cousin Carolyn Kott; dear friend Joe Tarasco; and family members and friends that she held close to her heart.
Chris, known as “Tina” to her immediate family, grew up in Hamtramck, the Polish neighborhood of Detroit, Mich. She was the only child of high school sweethearts, mother, Regina Skomski, and father, Stan Kendzior. Although her parents separated when she was a newborn, Chris ultimately had a close relationship with her dad that lasted until his death in 1970. She took every opportunity throughout her life to support and encourage others who had had a similar experience with divorce.
She was raised by her fiercely loyal, strong and fun mom, Regina, also known as “Rexie,” her grandma Helen, her great aunt Sophie and her aunts and uncles, for whom she was always grateful for sharing their homes and hearts, and for including her with her cousins on fun vacations and daytrips.
Chris’s mom instilled a love of music and singing, theater and movies, and they shared many good times seeing performances at the Fox Theater in Detroit.
Christina was a voracious reader and excellent student, winning a scholarship to St. Mary’s Academy in Monroe, Mich., for high school. For four years, she lived on campus with her classmates who became some of
Obituaries
her closest lifelong friends. She then attended Marygrove College in Detroit, graduating cum laude with a degree in journalism.
She and Fred (who was attending the University of Detroit) met during their college years on a blind date, and they recognized instantly that they would spend their lives together. Chris was truly grateful to join Fred’s large family, being welcomed by his dad, Joseph A. “Joe” Livers Sr. and stepmother, Mildred G. Sutherland Livers, and gained a bunch of brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, cousins and close Kentucky friends to share life with over the years.
Although Fred’s mother, Mary L. Geoghegan Livers, passed when he was young, Chris also loved and was honored to be part of the Geoghegan family.
Chris and Fred married in October of 1963 and ultimately moved to Roseville, Mich. During that time, Chris worked as a proofreader for a pharmaceutical company and Fred worked for LTV and Eaton Corporation while finishing his Master of Engineering degree — and Maria was born. They stayed in Roseville in the company of great friends and neighbors and were also part of the St. Athanasius Church family until 1970 when they moved to Russell Township for Fred’s work at Eaton’s Cleveland Research & Development division.
Once they were in Russell, Chris and Fred were happy to learn how fortunate they were in their Pekin Road neighborhood family. They also joined the community of St. Anselm Church, where they would be very involved throughout their lives: volunteering for festivals, Fred leading guitar masses and youth and adult choirs over the years, and Chris ushering as well as singing in the choir.
She and Fred also worked together on starting and running their businesses. L & N Olde Car Company and Newbury Sandblasting served the community for over 40 years, due to their commitment and the skills of their amazing partners and employees.
Chris and Fred hosted families from Vietnam after the fall of Saigon in 1975. Through a series of connections that began with the Pearl S. Buck Foundation, Chris was introduced to an organization helping to place families in the Northeast Ohio area. The Do and Nguyen families lived with the Livers family for a year and they have remained close ever since. She and Fred respected and honored
their service to others locally, nationally and internationally, in government, medicine and human rights, among other contributions.
Her career as a freelance photographer and reporter for the Geauga Times Leader and Cleveland Press sparked Chris’s interest in politics. She got involved in local campaigns and elections, was a precinct committee person, worked at the treasurer’s office in Geauga County and with the Russell Township zoning board. Chris then became a trustee on the Board of Russell Township Trustees, eventually being elected to six terms, serving for 24 years in that office.
Having grown up in the city, Chris understood the importance of large lot zoning for preserving the “Russell way of life” and the critical need for good stewardship of water and land resources, as well as the benefits of excellent police, fire, zoning, road and administrative services. She worked for these throughout her tenure.
She understood that people do not always agree on every issue, but that respectfully working together for the good of the community, its residents and its resources should always be the ultimate goal, now and for the future. Chris enjoyed working with all her colleagues and fellow trustees, and was grateful for their time, care and efforts to serve Russell Township and Geauga County.
Chris was involved with many groups in Geauga, including being a member of the Russell Women’s Civic Club, the Russell Township Historical Society, the Geauga County Health Department, the Geauga Young of Hearts and Burton-Middlefield Rotary. In each, her comradery with like-minded individuals and love of “Service Above Self” was a driving force.
She also maintained her and Fred’s relationship with “Little Brother” Brian after Fred passed, honoring their original Big Brothers, Big Sisters commitment for 50plus years.
She, Fred and Maria participated in performances of Tetélestai, and Chris and Fred always loved hosting gatherings like their annual Apple Cider Squeeze and having neighbors and friends over, opening their home to many who called them “mom” and “dad.” Chris also loved organic gardening, learning new things, reading, especially biographies and historical fiction, and enjoyed traveling whenever possible.
Chris faced the end of her life in the same way she lived all of the years before: with faith, integrity, grace, determination, intuitive foresight and planning, fearlessness,
a solution-oriented mindset and positive attitude. She and Maria have been gifted by the outpouring of prayers and support, in countless ways, from friends, neighbors, financial, legal and business advisors, medical experts, and family from the start of this journey. Thanks to all of you, including Tony and Paul, who have been a constant support and source of respect, respite, friendship, fun, food and kindness for Chris and Maria; and Mary Jo, whose sense of humor, skills, compassion and support as an aide and friend got Chris and Maria through these last months!
Chris and Maria are gratefully overwhelmed by the extraordinary care Chris received at MercyHealth St. Vincent and St. Charles Hospitals in Toledo, led by her neurosurgeon, Ratul Raychaudhuri, MD, and all involved in her journey at the Cleveland Clinic over these 7.5 years. Heartfelt thanks goes out to her primary care physician, Dr. Alla Kirsh, and Chris’s team at the Cleveland Clinic Brain Tumor & Neuro-Oncology Center, especially Glen Stevens, DO, PhD; Andrew Dhawan, MD, PhD; and Ms. Tiffany Sledge, RN, Care-Coordinator.
Gratitude also goes to Chris’s local dental and eye specialists who contributed extraordinarily to her quality of life. Thanks, also, to the staff and medical team at Aurora Manor for their kindness toward Chris and Maria in Chris’s very last days.
Chris will be honored with a wake on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025, from 3-7 p.m., at Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home in Chesterland, and a Celebration of Life on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, at 10 a.m., at St. Anselm Church, also in Chesterland.
Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Russell Township.
Special thanks from the family goes to Gattozzi & Son, Mr. Jay Jones, St. Anselm Church, Fr. Christopher Cox and Fr. Tom Sweany.
Please consider a donation in memory of Chris to: World Health Ambassador (www. whausa.org); Burton-Middlefield Rotary (www.maplesplashraffle.com); WomenSafe, Inc. (womansafe.org); or a charity close to your heart.
A livestream link will be provided for all who would like to watch the funeral remotely. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gattozziandson.com for the Livers family.
William D. Mayer
It is with great sadness that his fam ily announces the passing of William Donovan “Bill” May er of natural causes on his 94th birthday, Jan. 26, 2025, at St. Joseph Senior Living Community in Louisville, Ohio. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Bill was predeceased by his parents, Frederick William Mayer and Elizabeth Mary Harrison Mayer, of Cleveland; his brother, John Harrison Mayer; and sister, Elizabeth Mayer Dickey.
He is survived by his loving wife, Janet Mayer; son, Bill Mayer II; daughter Holly Molella (husband Matt Molella); daughter April Nobel (husband Harry Nobel); grandchildren, Graham and Lauren Molella, Harrison Nobel, Alyssa Nobel Kiel (husband Brian Kiel); and great-granddaughter, Emma Kiel, and great-grandson (on the way), William Kiel.
Bill had a love for baseball growing up and played in high school. He also served as an altar boy and was active in the Order of DeMolay (a fraternal organization for civic awareness, responsibility and leadership skills).
After graduating from Collinwood High School in 1950 with honors in cabinet making, he began college at Kent State University, where he joined the Epsilon Psi National Service Fraternity. It was at Kent State where he met his wife, Janet Yvonne Deakins, in English class. They were married on Aug. 8, 1953, at the Methodist Church in Amity, Ohio.
Bill worked as a carpenter apprentice at the Cleveland Trade School and graduated from there in 1956. Shortly afterwards, he joined the General Electric Company at Nela Park in Cleveland. He worked there until 1993, ending his career in charge of the GE Lighting Institute Showcase.
Bill and Jan moved to Russell Township in 1957 and raised their three children, all of whom attended West Geauga High School. Bill built their three homes in Russell during that time, the last one on Deerbrook Drive, where they lived until 2016.
When his children were young, Bill was very involved in all their activities, even bringing back his love of baseball by coaching Little League.
Bill and Jan both always said that Russell was a great place to build a home, raise a family and retire.
He absolutely loved the State of Ohio, the Buckeyes and the Cleveland Indians.
After retirement Bill took up restoring old Farmall tractors and was a member of the International Harvester Antique Club, Antique Tractor Club of Trumbull County and Ashland County Machinery Club. Bill loved going to tractor shows and participating in the Chesterland 4th of July Parade.
Bill and Jan also began delivering “Meals on Wheels” in Geauga County and were honored with the 2010 Supporters of the Year award for serving people in the community for 10 years or more.
Obituaries
Bill and Jan spent many years “snowbirding” in Destin, Fla., and loved having their children and grandchildren come down and play in the gulf and fly kites.
In 2016, they moved to St. Joseph Senior Living Community in Louisville, Ohio, where they have resided since.
Bill loved his wife above all else and was very proud of all his children and their accomplishments.
He and Jan enjoyed traveling, cross-country skiing, country line dancing and gardening. He took great pride in his home and beautiful yard. He loved serving special delivery pancakes “made with love” for his grandchildren. He also enjoyed having them help him feed the birds and the ducks.
He was a great euchre player and thoroughly enjoyed playing with his children and grandchildren when they came to visit.
He and Jan were great partners, in fact the entire family has looked up to the beautiful marriage they have had for 71 years.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care, 3743 Boettler Oaks Drive, Suite E, Uniontown, OH 44685.
Mary Lou Fende
Mary Lou Fende (nee Sonokey), age 82, passed away peaceful ly on Jan. 29, 2025.
Born Aug. 25, 1942, in Cleveland, she was a longtime resident of Chester Township.
Dorothy S. Drockton
Dorothy S. Drock ton, age 96, of Ches ter Township, passed away peacefully her home on Feb. 2, 2025.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband, James C. Drockton; sisters, Helen, Florence and Betty; and brothers, George and Michael.
Dorothy was the proud mother of eight: Dottie, Jim (Mary Beth), Kathy (Dan) Kimar, Tom (Libbey), Dave (Jackie), Mike (Barb), Don (Leslie) and Carolyn (Dave) Kennedy. She was adored by her 29 grandchildren and her 20-plus great-grandchildren and will be greatly missed by all.
A visitation took place at St. John Funeral Home, 16381 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge
Township, on Feb. 6, 2025, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Helen Catholic Church in Newbury Township on Feb. 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. Interment was at All Souls Cemetery, Chardon Township.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in her name to EWTN at missions. ewtn.com/donation/giving/; or the Angel Fund at catholiccommunity.org/give/catholic-education/angel-scholarship-fund (choose St Helen Parish in the drop down).
Notices should be sent in writing by the funeral directors and memorial societies to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 44024-5166, faxed to 440-285-2015 or emailed to editor@karlovecmedia.com. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $125 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.
Mary Lou was administrative secretary to the Chester Township Board of Trustees, secretary to the township road superinten dent, secretary to the zoning commission and secretary to the board of zoning appeals for over 25 years. She retired with 30 years of service to Chester Township.
Mary Lou enjoyed knitting with her friends, water aerobics at the Y, Naples, Fla., trips with friends from St. Anselm Church and spending time with friends and family.
She volunteered at the Geauga Historical Society, was a member of the Christ Child Society for many years and was a Lay Minister at St Anselm Church.
Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband, Frank; parents, Andrew and Clara Sonokey; and brothers, George and Andrew.
Mary Lou is survived by her daughters, Lisa (Tim) and Allison (Pam); grandchildren, Andrew (Bridget), Mitchell, Meghan, Robert and Emily; great-grandchildren, Connor and Brayden; and step-grandchildren, Noah, Nicholas, Jack and Maddy.
Private interment at a later date at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gattozziandson. com for the Fende family.
AUTOS & PARTS
1971 Honda Passport Motorcycle, for sale: Excellent shape! Runs good. No title. 1,600 mi. Best Offer buys it. 440-904-0408.
(4) 195/60 R15 Sumitomo snow tires, $200/OBO, like new. 440-431-6944.
FOR RENT
Middlefield Township Apartment: 3BR, 2BA, 2 stories, large private deck. $1,250 monthly plus utilities and deposit. NO PETS. 440-665-2345.
Auburn: 1BR apartment, includes laundry room and attached garage. No pets. $975/mo. Call 440-2210649.
FOR SALE
Two burial plots at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens with full package: 2 vaults, 2 caskets, dual memorial headstone; $7,400. 440-476-0706.
Ladder jacks $50. 12-foot expanding plank $100. Mantis Tiller $200. Hitch Carrier Tray $100. Hand-held electric leaf blower $50. 440-554-5731.
Firewood: mixed hardwoods, 4’x8’x16-inch pieces, $135. Delivered within 15 miles of Chardon. 440-6875404.
Total Exercise Glide Bike: 20’x46”, low impact full body, like rowing; 440-834-8416.
Benelli Super Black Eagle 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun, 26” barrel, EC, $1,300. 440-564-1172.
Guns: Remington 870 Express 12-gauge $400. CVA
Optima Nitride .50 cal. muzzleloader $300. Both guns in excellent condition. Original boxes included. 440321-8152.
B&G Mother’s Day Plates. large wooden rocking horse, copper kettles, many aquariums, clocks, kerosene lamps, pottery jugs, electric log splitter. Inquire 440338-3563.
New white triple track Storm Windows: perfect for home & porch enclosures (7) 30-1/4x59-1/4 $125 each. George 440-336-5044.
Lake View Cemetery, 4 burial plots total (2 double lots): Cemetery Price $10,100 per dbl. Asking $8,000 each dbl. 440-729-0070.
HELP WANTED
DRIVER WANTED for construction crew. Must be able to pull trailer. All local work. Call David Miller 440-4789703.
Help Wanted: General Landscaper - Growing Local Company seeks Full Time Position starting early Spring $20 / hour. Call or Text Mike 440 392-4527.
PETS & ANIMALS
Adult German Shepherds, AKC: (1) male, sable, 3yo. (1) female, black/tan, 2yo. Best Offers. 440-5485749.
Barn homes needed for a number of fixed & vaxxed semi-feral cats whose elderly caretaker was evicted. Help us help them. Rebecca 440-321-2485.
MISCELLANEOUS
FREE facts: 95 per cent of drug addicts started with marijuana! It won’t start in South Russell.
REAL ESTATE
Homes & Land Wanted: any condition or situation! Fast, friendly, local. Serving Geauga and surrounding counties. Text or call Wayne at 330-269-9595.
HOUSE WANTED IN CHESTERLAND. MINIMUM 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 1800+ SQUARE FEET, and 1 ACRE IN GOOD CONDITION. PREAPPROVED AND READY TO BUY. I AM NOT A FLIPPER! Call or text John (352)496-0897. If no answer, leave message. I ALREADY HAVE A REALTOR. For Sale By Owner is OK.
SERVICES
Will do housework, cleaning, laundry, and elder care. Experienced with references. 440-313-1804.
Need help organizing or clearing your clutter? Organizer Sharon can help! Charging by the hour. Call/text 440668-8768.
Square Dance Lessons! Middlefield, Perry, Bainbridge, Willoughby. Family Friendly dance for mind and body. Friendship set to music. Call 440-667-2446.
WANTED TO BUY
Buying all Stanley Bailey planes. Call Karl at 440-8123392.
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119. Also, scrap cleanup and removal.
Wanted: 4-ft metal lathe. Retired guy seeking new hobby. Cash paid. 440-313-1178.
