Class Notes

Janet K. DeLucia, 80 of Lakewood, passed away on February 6, 2024 at Fairview Hospital in Cleveland. 

She was born July 1, 1943 in Youngstown, a daughter of the late John and Doris (Arp) DeLucia Burns.

She graduated from Lowellville High School, then graduated from Muskingum University in 1965 with a Bachelor’s in Education. She then earned her master’s from Kent State University and went on to teach Culinary Arts at North Olmstead, Polaris and Cuyahoga Community College.

She had a lifelong love of jazz music, the Cleveland culinary scene, travel, her friends and her family. 

She is survived by her nephew, John (Samantha) DeLucia; nieces, Dawn DeLucia and Heather (Albert Durbin) Moran and many lifelong friends from Muskingum University, the Cleveland culinary community and the Cleveland jazz community. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her stepfather, James Burns and her brother, John “Jack” E. DeLucia.

Kenneth Leroy Pohl of Trussville, Alabama was born on February 1, 1939 in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. He and his brother, Bill Pohl, grew up in the home of their parents, Lula and William Pohl Jr. He graduated as Valedictorian from Monaca High School. He attended and graduated from Muskingum University with a double major in physics and mathematics. After graduation he began his 40 plus years of work in the steel industry. He began in the mill portion of the Jones and Laughlin (J&L) steel mill. He eventually switched to human resources where he remained until retirement. During his tenure with J&L, the company transitioned to LTV Steel and participated in several joint ventures with other steel companies; he continued in human resources with each endeavor. The last joint venture of LTV was with Sumitomo Metal and British Steel where he held the position of Senior Vice President of Human Resources until retirement. He was predeceased by his Mother, Lula Frances Pohl and father, William James Pohl Jr. He is survived by his wife, Fran Pohl; son, Ron Pohl, Ron's wife, Carol; son, Rick Pohl, Rick's wife, Ora; daughter, Cindy Stafford, Cindy's husband, Vaughn; daughter, Deb Cunningham, and her husband, Bob; grandchildren-Jamie Godec, Jamie's significant other, Mike Hein, Adam Godec, Ron Pohl, Ron's wife Danica, Ellie Chamness, Ellie's husband, Cody, William Stafford; Sarah Lowry, Sarah's husband Gary Davenport, Scott Lowry, Jay Lowry; great grandchildren-Dak and Emmie Chamness; his brother, Bill Pohl, Bill's wife, Carol, and nephews, Bill Pohl, Bill's wife, Denise, and Philip Pohl, Philip's wife, Veronica, and many other beloved cousins and family. 

Joan Jardine Smith passed away peacefully at her home on January 15, 2024 after a long and courageous battle with leukemia. 

Joan, an avid Colorado Rapids “Super Fan” and active C-38 member, was loved by many. Her boundless kindness, generosity, and love will be sorely missed. “Aunt Joan” as she was commonly referred as; never missed a Rapids practice or game and was also a lover of nature, mountains and her church choir. There was always an extra seat (or the piano bench) at Joan’s Thanksgiving dinner and a stocking for everyone on Christmas morning. She happily welcomed anyone to celebrate with her and her family, even cooking a ‘first’ Thanksgiving dinner for many new acquaintances in Australia. 

Joan was born on July 22, 1945 to John Smith and Mary (Creed) Smith of Hamilton Township, New Jersey.  After graduating high school Joan attended Muskingum University and started as a School Teacher in Byers, Colorado. After a short time as a school teacher, Joan switched careers and began working in customer service at Mountain Bell.  Joan’s tenacity, smarts and can-do attitude were recognised and she was promoted to the position of computer programmer. Joan had a natural talent for computer programming and deeply enjoyed problem solving with her coworkers.

Throughout her life, Joan enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, Europe, Mexico and Australia. She was enamored by the lupin in Iceland, the beauty of Independence pass, the dramatic mountains in Switzerland, and the Jacaranda trees in Australia. One of her fondest memories was traveling across the US from New Jersey to San Francisco in her VW beetle, not long after finishing University. She lived a few streets away from Fisherman’s Wharf until she was down to her last penny, and then headed to Colorado for her next adventure. She never passed up on an opportunity to drive throughout the US and was always enthusiastic about a good map. She even relocated, via car, to Eagle River, Alaska where she lived with her then husband, Eugene Dobrzynski and daughter, Christina.  

Joan was preceded in death by her parents John and Mary, her sister Carol Austin-Ollom (Smith), her nephew Michael Austin, her close confidant and Pastor Carlisle Spohr, and her best friend Freckles. 

Joan is succeeded in death by her daughter Christina (Emma) Dobrzynski, brother James Smith; nieces Susan (Juan Sanchez) Austin, Kathryn (Nicholas) Walsh; nephews Jes Smith, Jake (Sarah) Austin, James (Jaclyn) Smith, Ross (Brianne) Ollom; and grand nieces Zoey and Charlotte Austin and grand nephews Jackson Smith and Ian Mullin. 

Erwin Henschel, 96, passed January 25, and finally reunited with his beloved wife Betty. Their love was and is an example of devotion to the generations of family and all who knew them.
Bill retired as Technical Director of Industrial Coatings after a long career at Glidden. U.S. Navy veteran.
In retirement, Bill had more time to devote to his other passions, grandkids, the church, running, being the family handyman and woodworking. He was talented and prolific in creating beautiful works. Bill ran his last 10k at age 84!
Bill leaves behind children, Steve (Gail), Barb (Bob), Judy (Joe), Kurt (Susan) - 12 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and extended family. His unconditional love is forever in our hearts.

Angela D. (Marks) Hall, 49, of Wooster, died Saturday, January 20, 2024 at LifeCare Hospice in Wooster following a courageous battle with cancer.She was born January 7, 1975 in Wooster, to Coleman Marks and Sherri (Keplar) Finkenbinder and has lived in Wooster for the last 20 years.Angie graduated from Orrville High School in the class of 1993 and from Muskingham College and The University of Akron. She was a certified surgical technician and was most recently employed by Wooster Community Hospital. She had also worked for the Cleveland Clinic main campus for several years.She enjoyed crafting and loved her "fur babies". She was an advocate for dogs and other animals in need of rescuing. She was passionate about finding them good homes. She was also a consultant for Scentsy.Surviving is her mother, Sherri Finkenbinder; daughter, Sydni (Christopher) Hall-Nash; brother, Cody Finkenbinder; sister, Michele (Eddie) Cummings; niece, Remington Finkenbinder; nephew, Xander Finkenbinder; best friend, Tina Bachmann, her Angel on earth; and her dog, Freddy.She was preceded in death by her father, Coleman Marks; step-father, Tim Finkenbinder; and grandparents, Richard and Ruth Keplar and George and Martha Marks; and fur babies, Murphy and Bixby. 

Eric Humston, 74, formerly of Lucasville, OH, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at Adena Regional Medical Center Hospice. Eric was born June 5, 1949, in Akron OH, a son of the late Fred Paul and Catherine Joy Humston. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Carl Humston.

When Eric was four years old the family moved to Lucasville which became and remains his hometown. He was a proud graduate of the Valley High School Class of 1967 serving as Class President and co-valedictorian. He received a Bachelor's of Arts Degree from Muskingum College in 1971. Eric excelled in both academics and athletics, receiving honors in both areas and was drafted by the San Diego Chargers of the NFL. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve 1001st Field Service Company, from 1971-1977. He completed a Master's Degree in school counseling from Ohio University in 1977, and an Educational Specialist Degree in school administration from Ohio University in 2000.

Eric worked as a teacher, coach, counselor, and administrator in a number of school districts in Southeast and Southern Ohio including his alma mater where he is a member of the Valley Board of Education Hall of Fame. He concluded his 43 years in public education as Director of the State Support Team Region 15 providing assistance to school districts in the areas of early childhood, special education, and school accountability and improvement.

He is survived by his sisters Cathie Martin of Lucasville, Ellen Devins of Minford; his children Kariah Humston and Trevin Humston both of Clarktown; several nieces and nephews; and special friends Layla McCleese and Dacota Wetmore of West Portsmouth.

Catherine Michelle "Shelly" Molaro, 56, of Blissfield, MI died Sunday evening, December 31 2023 at Flower Hospital surrounded by her family Shelly was born on November 7, 1967 in Pensacola, Florida the daughter of Brian and Susan (Ashley) Coss. She attended Springfield High School in Holland, OH and graduated with the Class of 1986. Shelly went on to earn her bachelor's degree in political science from Muskingum University and her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Toledo. She worked as a staff attorney for the 6th District Court of Appeals in Toledo for many years. On October 7, 2000 Shelly was united in marriage to Salvatore "Sam" Molaro and this union blended two special families. During their 23 years of marriage, Shelly and Sam shared much joy and laughter. Shelly was a member of Light of Christ Parish, St. Peter's Catholic Church in Blissfield, where she sang in the choir. Shelly found opportunities to be involved with the fine arts; for many years, Shelly and her mother belonged to the Berkshire Choral Society and the Toledo Choral Society. If her children were involved in a school play or musical, Shelly would volunteer to help with the set or costumes, where her sewing skills were put to good use in costume designing. Not wanting to miss out on the fun, Shelly was a Girl Scout leader when her daughters were young. In addition to her husband, Sam, Shelly is survived by her mother, Susan; daughters, Emily Molaro and Abigail Molaro; stepdaughters, Katie Molaro (Mike Castellon) and Nicole (Chase) Olsen; grandchildren, Luke and Claire Olsen; Uncle James; and Aunt Margie (Ward) White. She was preceded in death by her father, Brian; and brother, James Coss.

Ralph P. Dunn, age 88, of Louisville, Ohio, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his family on October 13, 2023. Born February 5, 1935 in Wheatland, Indiana, he was the son of the late Beulah (Gresham) Dunn and Dale Collins. He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Peggy (Kuhn) Dunn; daughter, Terri (Blaine) Peck; sons, David Dunn and Lance (Kelli) Dunn; 4 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren; brother, George Collins; and first wife, May Glass.

Ralph proudly served his country in The United States Army, in which he later retired, after his many years of his service. He was always up for a challenge and served as a paratrooper, led investigations in top security operations, was a member of the Army Corps of Engineers, and brought soldiers home at the end of the Korean Conflict. Along with his service in Korea, he was stationed in Vietnam and Thailand. Apart from his honorable service, Ralph was an avid golfer, bowler, and archer and an incredible marksman. Most importantly, he had a magnetic personality. He could make people laugh and always had such a welcoming presence to anyone he met. He was devoted to his nation and devoted to his family. Ralph will be deeply missed as his family honors his life and legacy for years to come.

Shirley Ann (Leeper) Biegler of Columbus passed away quietly January 5, 2024 at the age of 97. Shirley was born in Cambridge, Ohio on September 3, 1926, the first child of Frank N. and Velma (Patterson) Leeper (deceased). She graduated from Brown High School in Cambridge and Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio. She retired after a long career as an elementary school teacher with a preference for second grade. Her longest service was in Pike Elementary of the East Muskingum Schools. She married Clancy Biegler (deceased) in 1950, and shared with him over 64 years of marriage. She was especially proud of the improvements and gardening at the various homes where they lived and was a member of the New Concord and Upper Arlington garden clubs. She is survived by her siblings, Louise Williams of Cambridge and Robert Leeper of Beverly, Ohio and by her sons, Chad (Ellen), Kent (Lisa) and Todd (Shelley). There are five grandchildren, Scott, Craig, Kyle, Ross and Elise; and seven great grandchildren.

Cheyenne Sierra Van Gundy, age 24, passed away at home in the arms of her loving family on December 27, 2023. Cheyenne was a student in the Teays Valley High School where she graduated in 2018 with honors. While at Teays Valley High School she was chosen as a representative for Buckeye Girls State and was a proud member of the Glamorous Edition Show Choir for 3 years. She went on to attend Muskingum University, graduating in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in History and attaining 3 minors in English, Communications, and Pre-Law. While at Muskingum University she was inducted into the National Leadership Honor Society, The Muskingum University History Honors Society, The National History Honor Society, The International English Honor Society, and The College National Honor Society. She was also proud to have received 2 prestigious awards: The John and Annie Glenn Public Service Fellowship award, and the 2021-2022 “Muskie of the Year” award. She graduated from Muskingum University with Summa Cum Laude in 2022 and immediately applied and was accepted to the Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law. She successfully completed 3 semesters of law school before her untimely death. She was a published author, having her poem titled “She Was Free” published in a book of poetry titled "Futures” in 2018, pg. 170. Cheyenne was a special human being. You will never know a kinder, considerate, caring, and loveable person than Cheyenne. She will be missed by everyone who knew her, and forever loved by everyone who loved her. Cheyenne is survived by her grandparents, Jack and Marsha Van Gundy; her mother, Courtney Hess (Chuck); uncles, Casey Van Gundy, Clancy Van Gundy (Stephanie Festog), and Chance Van Gundy (Hope); cousins, Skye Van Gundy, Trace Van Gundy, Blaze Van Gundy, and Breeze Van Gundy; half-siblings, Cole Hess and Calynn Hess; other aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends and fellow students from Muskingum University and Ohio Northern Law School along with special friends, Professor Dr. Laura Hilton, Lydia Fitzpatrick and her beloved pet dog, Gucci.

Harriet J. Burney ( McMaster),  '56 , age 89, of West Seneca, NY entered into rest on Thursday, December 14, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Walter A. Burney, '55; Dearest mother of David (Misty Sarchet) Burney '84; Linda ( Burney) Clotfelter '85; and Michael ( Susan) Burney. Loving grandmother to 6 grandchildren and 1 great- grandson. Harriet met Walt at Muskingum University where she will be inurned with her husband in the university columbarium.

A celebration of Phil’s life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 in Missoula. 
Please join us in sharing a pint and telling a story in his honor. 

The celebration will be held at the KettleHouse Brewing Co. Bonner Taproom at 11:00 am. 
(605 Cold Smoke Ave, Bonner Montana)

Philip Thompson Bain, 80, of Missoula, Montana left the trailhead for the last time from his home on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023. He was vibrant, sharp and an epic story-teller until his final days.

Phil was born in Zanesville, Ohio to parents Muriel and J. Herbert Bain. His childhood was one of shenanigans, small-town escapades and keeping up with his older, most mischievous brother, John. Phil had a small army of devoted friends. These childhood friendships forged lifelong bonds and his circle remained fiercely loyal and close to each other even as they became octogenarians.  Phil did not utter a word until the age two whereupon he said that he wanted a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. (Let it be known, Phil ate nothing but peanut butter for the first 5 years of his life!)  He studied piano, but missed a majority of classes because he had to “scrim at schree”. This confused his piano teacher, who wasn’t clear whether he had to “swim at three” or “trim a tree.” His first recital piece was “My pet squirrel”. He was also renowned as a crackerjack player at “mailbox baseball”, which was played by Phil, his brother, and friends in the family convertible with a baseball bat. 
 
His childhood home in New Concord was teeming with people, energy, and good conversation. His family often opened their doors to football teammates and classmates.. The dinner table at the Bain household was uproarious and lively. It was a place for conversation, hilarity, Presbyterian hospitality, heated debate and always peppered with guests - actors, athletes, and friends sharing a meal. Phil’s parents, Muriel, a Speech and Theatre Professor, and Herb, the town doctor and Muskingum football team Doc, instilled a strong sense of generosity, grace and community responsibility in Phil. He took their lessons very much to heart and throughout his entire life he was known as a very kind and generous soul - one who went out of his way most days of the week to lend someone a hand or check in on a friend. 
 
Phil attended prep school in Pennsylvania at Kiski Prep School for his final two years of high school. Summers were filled with family fishing trips to Michigan and Canada. These jaunts set the tone for a deep love of the outdoors and a penchant for a good story ‘round the campfire. Phil learned to drive when his father needed to go to Florida to recover from an illness. Having never been behind the wheel of a car, his pragmatic parents decided that there was no better way to learn to drive than navigating the Buick from Ohio to Florida.  Philip Thompson Bain, 80, of Missoula, Montana left the trailhead for the last time from his home on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023. He was vibrant, sharp and an epic story-teller until his final days. 

Returning to New Concord, Phil began his path as an academic educator at Muskingum College where he was a member of the Stag Club fraternity and followed a long lineage of Bains who had both attended and taught at the college.  As the story goes, he was a pre-med major until his golf tee time constantly interfered with biology class. He met his wife, Marleen Apple Bain, as a freshman when they were in chapel. Phil was in the row in front of Marleen when she accidentally hit him over the head with her pledge card as he leaned back in the pew. This fortuitous collision sparked a 54-year marriage!  Christy, Amy, and Martin were born while they were at Muskingum and the family of five lived in old army barracks doubling as married student housing. Life-long friendships were made at Muskingum College. Phil coached football and basketball and taught at John Glenn High School in these early years. 
 
Phil’s only brother, John Bain, was a lively and powerful constant in his life, sharing a love of adventure. They both raised young families together in Ohio and, though they each moved to far corners of the US, they regularly herded the whole kit n’ caboodle between Montana, Idaho, and Puerto Rico, ensuring their children had strong relationships with their cousins. The Bain brothers, patriarchs in the finest sense, taught their children that the truest love is family. 
 
After college graduation the family moved to Athens, Ohio, where he completed his masters as well as a PhD in Guidance and Counseling at Ohio University. The years in Athens found the whole family living in the first co-ed dorm on campus where Phil was the Head RA, eating amidst students in the campus dining hall and tearing through the dorm halls on bikes. The sixties were raging in full force at Ohio University and Phil proudly sported an afro and corduroy bell-bottoms. While a full-time student, he also moonlighted at Jim Smith’s farm bucking hay and as a medic at Athens Hospital. Living through the Ohio University/Kent State Riots in 1969, Phil and Marleen knew it was time to move on.  It was clear to them that they needed to raise their family elsewhere after a brick was pelted through their window during the riots. 
 
Feeling the call to go westward, Phil and family, with girls clad in gingham and son toting a toy rifle, boarded a plane to Idaho. Immediately upon arrival, the family went directly to a car lot and purchased Phil’s dream car, a brand-new yellow Jeep Wagoneer. After piling the kids into the back of the jeep and hitting the road, he heard shrieking and quickly realized that the metal in the back of the jeep was too hot to sit on. His quick fix was to pull into Tri-State and buy bean bag chairs to toss into the back for the kids. Indeed, the best car ever! 
 
Moscow was a place to make more dear, lifelong friendships, where Phil spent four years at the University of Idaho as the Associate Registrar. Phil taught all the kids and Marleen how to ski at the iconic Moscow Mountain Ski Slope. Rousing everyone out of bed every Saturday when there was snow, he loaded up the jeep, slapped together peanut butter sandwiches and they headed off to the slopes in the jeep. He never minded that he spent most of his day with his gloves off and hands in the snow helping kids put their skis back on and dragging them back onto their feet - he wanted everyone to love skiing just as much as he did. Phil was a daredevil father who made sure his kids got to spend time playing ball, riding bikes, raising pets, and enjoying his love of the outdoors. 
 
In 1973, the Bain family pulled up stakes in Idaho and crossed the border to his dream state of Montana and Phil never looked back - this was home. Big Sky country indeed. Upon arrival, Phil and Marleen quickly bought a house in the Rattlesnake, a Starcraft pop-up camper and two horses named Applejack and Brownie - let the festivities begin!   

Backcountry Horseman became a passion for Phil. Signing up for a packing course with the legendary Smoke Elser opened a whole new world of Decker pack saddles, canvas manties, Barrel hitches, and horsemanship that forged lifelong friendships in the Missoula community. Marleen and Phil soon found themselves on week-long treks packing into the Bob Marshall Wilderness, BBQ trail rides, and rides deep into their backyard - the Rattlesnake Wilderness. He wore the hat of president of Back Country Horsemen for a bit.  Phil was always game to call the attendance office if his children were willing to accompany him to the Tuesday horse auctions at the stockyards. Many a horse had the honor of bunking at the Bain’s. Brownie, Blackie, Bingo - Phil’s horse-naming skills were epic... 
 
Phil was one of the original wood carvers on the Missoula Carousel. He spent untold hours carving and enjoying the camaraderie of carvers Chuck Kaparich & Co.  Of the many horses Phil helped to carve, American Beauty, was one of his favorites as it celebrated the Missoula Caras family.  He also contributed to work on many other ponies including Red Ribbons, Horse, Pal, and Trapper. He collaborated with carving friends to craft the US Forest Service Forest Ranger for the Missoula International Airport, and he created and carved the bench in Caras Park that sits near Brendan’s wave on the Clark Fork River. A quarter of a century after the Carousel was completed, carving on Thursday evenings with some of the original carvers still held a special place in his heart. A totem pole that he carved graces the front door at the Bain home. 

It has been said that you would be hard-pressed to find a UM alum that had not experienced a helping hand or kindness from Phil Bain. A 31-year stint at the University of Montana as the Registrar left a long trail of fans. A beloved soul at the university, his committee memberships and awards were many.  He helped to create a community and spirit that still vibrantly defines the University of Montana. Post retirement, he continued his ties and fellowship with a dedicated group of former UM administrators, professors, and deans, gathering at the KettleHouse to sip a brew most Thursday afternoons.  
 
Friendships in Montana ran deep for Phil and Marleen and their life was jam-packed: Bridge groups, Meals on Wheels deliveries, Grizzly Basketball and Grizzly Football, fishing, hunting, camping, skiing at Snow Bowl and Marshall Mountain. A dedicated circle of dear friends golfed, cross-country skied, traveled and celebrated milestones together. Phil was a truly fine neighbor, snow-blowing the neighborhood driveways even after knee-replacement surgery. Like his mother, Phil was passionate about travel and he and Marleen journeyed to England, Scotland, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Hawaii, Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands and throughout the United States. A trip to Prince of Wales Island, Alaska was a special trip the month before he passed away. 
 
The Rattlesnake Recreation Area and Wilderness became the final Bain stomping grounds. The move in 1986 found them living smack-dab across the road from the Rattlesnake Trailhead. Phil and Marleen took thorough advantage of the majesty of the Rattlesnake and were fierce advocates for the wilderness area. Daily life included time in the glorious Rattlesnake. Summertime saw them on hikes with their labs, bike rides, or horseback riding the treacherous trail to Glacier Lake. Winter saw their cross-country skis perpetually propped by the front door so that they could be hopped on immediately after work for a quick ski in the dusky light.  
 
Phil was devoted to his grandchildren and played a large role in their lives. He and Marleen regularly traveled the circuit between Seattle, Reno, and Phoenix to visit children and grandchildren, His humble spirit and adventurous soul lives on in each of them.  
 
A few memories of Phil in the words of his grandchildren:  “ I loved to visit my grandfather when I was a little girl because after dinner I got to have “deedirt”.  “At Grandma and Grandpa’’s 50th wedding celebration in Hawaii they asked him how they made their marriage last and he said, ‘Just keep on lovin! ‘ It was super sweet and I feel like he treated everyone with that sort of motto - a good rule of thumb.”  
“He taught me about the history of basketball and told me stories about Michael Ray Richardson when I would sit next to him at Grizzly basketball games.”   “’When I would visit my grandpa he would take me to the Bison Range, mining for rocks, and to the candy store. He seemed to know about everything and he inspired me to learn.”  “I will never forget the day we went ziplining at Snowbowl. After that, Phil showed us the bench he carved at Caras Park and that night we all enjoyed a good steak, several glasses of wine and some great conversation. “ “Grand-pa-pa embodied all things a grandpa should be. He was full of jokes and a good hearty chuckle. He always wanted to teach us new things and fill us with knowledge whether that be about animals, wood carving or something he read in National Geographic. I could always rely on his molasses cookies in the red cookie jar or a delicious piece of toast with creamy, NOT CRUNCHY, Jif peanut butter.”  “ I can’t help but smile when thinking about his legendary afternoon naps, and notorious love for Red Hook every evening. I will remember my grandpa for his unfailing support and pride in each of us. My grandpa was incredibly kind and always looking to make people laugh.”  “I’ll always remember his kind smile around his loved ones and his ability to nap anytime, anywhere."

We miss our father and grandfather dearly.   
 
Phil was preceded in death by his wife, Marleen, and his parents, Herbert and Muriel Bain. Phil is survived by his daughter and his son-in-law, Christy Bain Smith and Michael Smith, his granddaughters Mimi and Violet, his grandsons Nathan and Andrew, and his great-grandson, Kai Philippe of Ellensburg, Washington and Denver; his daughter, Amy Bain, and his granddaughters Elle and Saadiya of Peoria, Arizona; his son and his daughter-in-law, Martin Bain and Mitzi Miller, his granddaughter, Kate, and his grandson, Andrew of Reno, Nevada; his sister-in-law, Marisa Bain of Columbus, Ohio; his nephews Jim Bain (Julie), Stephen Bain (Michelle), Hatuey Infante Castellanos (Marie), JJ Bain and his nieces Ellen Bain, Marie Lourdess Infante Lessells (Doug) Marisol Infante and Maria Bain Ferraro (John), as well as many grandnieces and grandnephews. 
 
Memorials may be made to “The Phil Bain Memorial Fund “ at A Carousel for Missoula (101 Carousel Dr. Missoula, MY 59802). This fund will help ensure that kids in need can always saddle up and ride the ponies at the Carousel, something Phil was passionate about.  

A celebration of Phil’s life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 in Missoula. Please join us in sharing a pint and telling a story in his honor.  The celebration will be held at the KettleHouse Brewing Co. Bonner Taroom at 11:00 am. (605 Cold Smoke Ave, Bonner Montana)

Charles "Chuck" R. Wallace III, age 80 of Chillicothe, OH, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2023. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Karen "Kay" Wallace; three daughters: Paige (Terry) Young of Plymouth, MI, Jackie (Mike) Vander Woude of Kettering, OH, and Tara (Mark) Robinson of Acworth, GA; brother Wayne (Janice) Wallace, and four grandchildren: Regan (Sam) Morley (nee Robinson), Jacob Robinson, Brody and Mya Vander Woude. Chuck was born in Detroit Michigan and grew up in Washington Court House, Ohio where he graduated from Miami Trace High School. He attended Muskingum University, where he was a dual-sport athlete in wrestling and football and where he met and married Kay. He taught at Chillicothe High School for over 35 years and was proud to coach multiple high school sports, notably wrestling, freshman football, and track and field. He was honored to be inducted into the Chillicothe High School Athletic Hall of Fame in January 2020. Chuck was an avid collector of toy soldiers and had a collection of over 40,000 miniatures. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and enjoyed teaching Sunday School and taking part in many clubs and groups. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Shirley Wallace, and his in-laws, Harry and Jeanne Hess.

David Eugene Lyle, a beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away on December 27, 2023, at the age of 71. Born on May 25, 1952, in Mansfield, Ohio, to John C. and Betty J. (Keller) Lyle. David spent his life bringing joy to others through his wit, music and culinary talents. David was a man of many talents and passions. In his younger years, he showcased his love for music as a member of various bands in the 1970s and 80s, leaving his mark on the local music scene. He enjoyed showing his talents at the Presbyterian Church in Mt. Gilead which he attended regularly in the 1960's and 70's and was a member of the All Ohio Youth Choir. He attended Muskingum College from 1970-1973 and was a member of the Muskingum College Alumni Association. David also had a love for reading and the Mansfield public library where he would check out books and books on audio. David is survived by his brothers, Ric (Suzi) Lyle of Mount Gilead, Tom (Theresa) Lyle of Mount Gilead, and John Lyle of Waterford, Maine, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brother, Daniel Lyle.

John R. "Dick" Gilmore, 97, of Columbus, Ohio went home to be with The Lord Friday, December 22, 2023. Dick was born on September 30, 1926, in Newark, Ohio to his parents John W. and Betty (Ashbrook) Gilmore. He graduated from Columbus West High School in the class of 1944. He then enlisted in the United States Army in 1944 and served his country during World War II in Germany. After 3 years of dutiful service, he was honorably discharged and enrolled in Muskingum College where he played baseball, football and basketball and graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1951. On September 13, 1953, he married Maralyn Davis and the two shared 52 wonderful years together until her passing. Dick is survived by his son Mark (Carmen) Gilmore; daughter Raelene Meadows; Grandchildren Scott (Jessica) Meadows, Maggie (Cory) Tilley; great-grandchildren Haley, Johnny, and Jackson Meadows; and several nieces and nephews. Dick is preceded in death by his beloved wife Maralyn Gilmore; brother Don Gilmore; and son-in-law Darrell Meadows. He will be dearly missed. Dick was a member of what was known as the greatest generation. Not known only for their fortitude and service in a time when the world most needed them but also for their values and sacrifices that they so freely gave to make the world a better place for the generations to come after them. He was an industrious man, starting out his career as a Wonder Bread route man working under his father. Staying in sales, he went to work for Kahn's Meat Packing Company, retiring after 26 years of service. He and his wife Maralyn devoted their lives to raising a loving, Christian family. Dick was athletic and in turn loved to watch sports, especially football, baseball, and basketball. The true American roots. He attended the Genoa Baptist Church and was a member of the Canal Winchester Masonic Lodge #670 F&AM.

Joyce McIlvried Buckingham, 85, of Granger, Ohio, passed away on December 22, 2023 after bravely battling cancer. She was born to Edwin John McIlvried and Colette Clement McIlvried on June 1, 1938 in Lakewood, Ohio. Joyce was a spirited, adventurous woman who always loved a good joke. Her zest for life was truly inspiring.

Joyce was a proud member of Muskingum College’s 1960 graduating class, garnering a degree in Education with certifications in Spanish, Biology, Physical Education, and English. She was a devoted member of the Kianu sorority, proudly displaying her letters up to the time of her passing. She always spoke of her college years as among the most influential of her life.

From a young age, Joyce enjoyed raising animals. As a child she raised and sold chickens and rabbits. She reared Arabian horses and bred Wire Fox Terriers as an adult. Her hobby of breeding Wire Fox Terriers grew into a family passion for the breed--which continues to this day and will likely continue for generations to come.

Joyce had a successful career as a teacher, having taught elementary school as well as high school English and Spanish. Her passion for education touched the lives of many students throughout her career.

Joyce’s large variety of interests and hobbies provided enrichment and enjoyment beyond measure. She was an avid and skilled Bridge player, forging lifetime friendships through her devotion to the game. She was also a licensed pilot and loved taking to the skies. On top of this, Joyce enjoyed horseback riding and exploring the great outdoors. Her adventurous spirit knew no bounds.

Joyce will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and beloved dog, Cloe. Joyce is survived by her children; Mark (Janice) Foraker, Amy (Bernhard) Swoboda, Beth (Chellie) Foraker, Bruce (Lori) Foraker and step daughter, Anne (Glenn) Goodrich. Also surviving are thirteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well as her siblings; Miriam Pirnat, Bonnie (Robert) Rasor, John (Karen) McIlvried, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, and her beloved husbands; Thomas Hurst and Thomas Buckingham.

It is with great sadness that the family of Larry Kent Slater announces his passing on December 21, 2023, at Selby General Hospital in Marietta, Ohio. Larry was born on June 18, 1936, in Betsy Layne, Kentucky to John L Slater and Hazel Crum Slater. His survivors include wife of 62 years. Sharon Lee Slater; daughter Julia and husband Dr. Jeff Hammons of Marietta OH; grandson Jared and wife Olivia Hammons of Chicago IL; grandson Justin Hammons of Marietta OH; sister-in-law Susy and husband Terry Bragg of McConnelsville OH; brother-in-law Edward and wife Charlotte McGrath of Columbus OH. He was preceded in death by his beloved son Jeffery Kent Slater, his parents John L and Hazel Slater, a special aunt Norma F. Crum, and his in-laws Winnifred and Bernard McGrath. Larry was a graduate of Muskingum University where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and obtained a master’s degree from Ohio University. He started his career in education as a teacher and coach in Morgan County Schools. He then moved to Marietta City Schools where he served as an administrator until his retirement. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Marietta, Marietta Rotary Club, YMCA Board Member, and Marietta Country Club. He had many hobbies which included being an avid sports fan, especially Kentucky Wildcats Basketball; hosting Sports Slants radio show; golfing; and watching his grandsons’ sporting events. 

Kathryn Ann Bell was born June 11, 1937 in Canton, Ohio & died on 18 April 2023 in Torrance, California at age 85. Her parents were Wilber & Helen Bell of Carrollton, Ohio. Kathy graduated from Carrollton High in 1955 and she received a B.S. in Education from Muskingum College in 1959. She was a beloved kindergarten teacher for 36 years in the Wiseburn School District in Hawthorne, CA; she retired in 1995. Kathy was a kind and loving teacher who always had a rocking chair in her classroom to comfort little ones in need. Kathy married Richard Brooks in 1959 and divorced in 1975. Kathy was fortunate to have three loves in her lifetime: Tom, Dick and Harry. She is survived by her brother, James Walter Bell, of Scotts Valley, CA and three nieces, Dr. Elizabeth Bell-Dayton, Kathryn Weir and Barbara Newbold and one nephew, Stephen Bell. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Nancy Cope, of Carrollton, Ohio, her niece, Gina Bell, and Tom, Dick & Harry.

Philip Thompson Bain, 80, of Missoula, Montana left the trailhead for the last time from his home on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023. He was vibrant, sharp and an epic story-teller until his final days.

Phil was born in Zanesville, Ohio to parents Muriel and J. Herbert Bain. His childhood was one of shenanigans, small-town escapades and keeping up with his older, most mischievous brother, John. Phil had a small army of devoted friends. These childhood friendships forged lifelong bonds and his circle remained fiercely loyal and close to each other even as they became octogenarians.  Phil did not utter a word until the age two whereupon he said that he wanted a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. (Let it be known, Phil ate nothing but peanut butter for the first 5 years of his life!)  He studied piano, but missed a majority of classes because he had to “scrim at schree”. This confused his piano teacher, who wasn’t clear whether he had to “swim at three” or “trim a tree.” His first recital piece was “My pet squirrel”. He was also renowned as a crackerjack player at “mailbox baseball”, which was played by Phil, his brother, and friends in the family convertible with a baseball bat. 

His childhood home in New Concord was teeming with people, energy, and good conversation. His family often opened their doors to football teammates and classmates.. The dinner table at the Bain household was uproarious and lively. It was a place for conversation, hilarity, Presbyterian hospitality, heated debate and always peppered with guests - actors, athletes, and friends sharing a meal. Phil’s parents, Muriel, a Speech and Theatre Professor, and Herb, the town doctor and Muskingum football team Doc, instilled a strong sense of generosity, grace and community responsibility in Phil. He took their lessons very much to heart and throughout his entire life he was known as a very kind and generous soul - one who went out of his way most days of the week to lend someone a hand or check in on a friend. 

Phil attended prep school in Pennsylvania at Kiski Prep School for his final two years of high school. Summers were filled with family fishing trips to Michigan and Canada. These jaunts set the tone for a deep love of the outdoors and a penchant for a good story ‘round the campfire. Phil learned to drive when his father needed to go to Florida to recover from an illness. Having never been behind the wheel of a car, his pragmatic parents decided that there was no better way to learn to drive than navigating the Buick from Ohio to Florida.  Philip Thompson Bain, 80, of Missoula, Montana left the trailhead for the last time from his home on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023. He was vibrant, sharp and an epic story-teller until his final days. 

Returning to New Concord, Phil began his path as an academic educator at Muskingum College where he was a member of the Stag Club fraternity and followed a long lineage of Bains who had both attended and taught at the college.  As the story goes, he was a pre-med major until his golf tee time constantly interfered with biology class. He met his wife, Marleen Apple Bain, as a freshman when they were in chapel. Phil was in the row in front of Marleen when she accidentally hit him over the head with her pledge card as he leaned back in the pew. This fortuitous collision sparked a 54-year marriage!  Christy, Amy, and Martin were born while they were at Muskingum and the family of five lived in old army barracks doubling as married student housing. Life-long friendships were made at Muskingum College. Phil coached football and basketball and taught at John Glenn High School in these early years.  

Phil’s only brother, John Bain, was a lively and powerful constant in his life, sharing a love of adventure. They both raised young families together in Ohio and, though they each moved to far corners of the US, they regularly herded the whole kit n’ caboodle between Montana, Idaho, and Puerto Rico, ensuring their children had strong relationships with their cousins. The Bain brothers, patriarchs in the finest sense, taught their children that the truest love is family. 

After college graduation the family moved to Athens, Ohio, where he completed his masters as well as a PhD in Guidance and Counseling at Ohio University. The years in Athens found the whole family living in the first co-ed dorm on campus where Phil was the Head RA, eating amidst students in the campus dining hall and tearing through the dorm halls on bikes. The sixties were raging in full force at Ohio University and Phil proudly sported an afro and corduroy bell-bottoms. While a full-time student, he also moonlighted at Jim Smith’s farm bucking hay and as a medic at Athens Hospital. Living through the Ohio University/Kent State Riots in 1969, Phil and Marleen knew it was time to move on.  It was clear to them that they needed to raise their family elsewhere after a brick was pelted through their window during the riots. 

Feeling the call to go westward, Phil and family, with girls clad in gingham and son toting a toy rifle, boarded a plane to Idaho. Immediately upon arrival, the family went directly to a car lot and purchased Phil’s dream car, a brand-new yellow Jeep Wagoneer. After piling the kids into the back of the jeep and hitting the road, he heard shrieking and quickly realized that the metal in the back of the jeep was too hot to sit on. His quick fix was to pull into Tri-State and buy bean bag chairs to toss into the back for the kids. Indeed, the best car ever! 

Moscow was a place to make more dear, lifelong friendships, where Phil spent four years at the University of Idaho as the Associate Registrar. Phil taught all the kids and Marleen how to ski at the iconic Moscow Mountain Ski Slope. Rousing everyone out of bed every Saturday when there was snow, he loaded up the jeep, slapped together peanut butter sandwiches and they headed off to the slopes in the jeep. He never minded that he spent most of his day with his gloves off and hands in the snow helping kids put their skis back on and dragging them back onto their feet - he wanted everyone to love skiing just as much as he did. Phil was a daredevil father who made sure his kids got to spend time playing ball, riding bikes, raising pets, and enjoying his love of the outdoors. 

In 1973, the Bain family pulled up stakes in Idaho and crossed the border to his dream state of Montana and Phil never looked back - this was home. Big Sky country indeed. Upon arrival, Phil and Marleen quickly bought a house in the Rattlesnake, a Starcraft pop-up camper and two horses named Applejack and Brownie - let the festivities begin!

Backcountry Horseman became a passion for Phil. Signing up for a packing course with the legendary Smoke Elser opened a whole new world of Decker pack saddles, canvas manties, Barrel hitches, and horsemanship that forged lifelong friendships in the Missoula community. Marleen and Phil soon found themselves on week-long treks packing into the Bob Marshall Wilderness, BBQ trail rides, and rides deep into their backyard - the Rattlesnake Wilderness. He wore the hat of president of Back Country Horsemen for a bit.  Phil was always game to call the attendance office if his children were willing to accompany him to the Tuesday horse auctions at the stockyards. Many a horse had the honor of bunking at the Bain’s. Brownie, Blackie, Bingo - Phil’s horse-naming skills were epic...

Phil was one of the original wood carvers on the Missoula Carousel. He spent untold hours carving and enjoying the camaraderie of carvers Chuck Kaparich & Co.  Of the many horses Phil helped to carve, American Beauty, was one of his favorites as it celebrated the Missoula Caras family.  He also contributed to work on many other ponies including Red Ribbons, Horse, Pal, and Trapper. He collaborated with carving friends to craft the US Forest Service Forest Ranger for the Missoula International Airport, and he created and carved the bench in Caras Park that sits near Brendan’s wave on the Clark Fork River. A quarter of a century after the Carousel was completed, carving on Thursday evenings with some of the original carvers still held a special place in his heart. A totem pole that he carved graces the front door at the Bain home. 

It has been said that you would be hard-pressed to find a UM alum that had not experienced a helping hand or kindness from Phil Bain. A 31-year stint at the University of Montana as the Registrar left a long trail of fans. A beloved soul at the university, his committee memberships and awards were many.  He helped to create a community and spirit that still vibrantly defines the University of Montana. Post retirement, he continued his ties and fellowship with a dedicated group of former UM administrators, professors, and deans, gathering at the KettleHouse to sip a brew most Thursday afternoons.  

Friendships in Montana ran deep for Phil and Marleen and their life was jam-packed: Bridge groups, Meals on Wheels deliveries, Grizzly Basketball and Grizzly Football, fishing, hunting, camping, skiing at Snow Bowl and Marshall Mountain. A dedicated circle of dear friends golfed, cross-country skied, traveled and celebrated milestones together. Phil was a truly fine neighbor, snow-blowing the neighborhood driveways even after knee-replacement surgery. Like his mother, Phil was passionate about travel and he and Marleen journeyed to England, Scotland, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Hawaii, Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands and throughout the United States. A trip to Prince of Wales Island, Alaska was a special trip the month before he passed away. 

The Rattlesnake Recreation Area and Wilderness became the final Bain stomping grounds. The move in 1986 found them living smack-dab across the road from the Rattlesnake Trailhead. Phil and Marleen took thorough advantage of the majesty of the Rattlesnake and were fierce advocates for the wilderness area. Daily life included time in the glorious Rattlesnake. Summertime saw them on hikes with their labs, bike rides, or horseback riding the treacherous trail to Glacier Lake. Winter saw their cross-country skis perpetually propped by the front door so that they could be hopped on immediately after work for a quick ski in the dusky light.  

Phil was devoted to his grandchildren and played a large role in their lives. He and Marleen regularly traveled the circuit between Seattle, Reno, and Phoenix to visit children and grandchildren, His humble spirit and adventurous soul lives on in each of them.  

A few memories of Phil in the words of his grandchildren:  “ I loved to visit my grandfather when I was a little girl because after dinner I got to have “deedirt”.  “At Grandma and Grandpa’’s 50th wedding celebration in Hawaii they asked him how they made their marriage last and he said, ‘Just keep on lovin! ‘ It was super sweet and I feel like he treated everyone with that sort of motto - a good rule of thumb.”  

“He taught me about the history of basketball and told me stories about Michael Ray Richardson when I would sit next to him at Grizzly basketball games.”   “’When I would visit my grandpa he would take me to the Bison Range, mining for rocks, and to the candy store. He seemed to know about everything and he inspired me to learn.”  “I will never forget the day we went ziplining at Snowbowl. After that, Phil showed us the bench he carved at Caras Park and that night we all enjoyed a good steak, several glasses of wine and some great conversation. “ “Grand-pa-pa embodied all things a grandpa should be. He was full of jokes and a good hearty chuckle. He always wanted to teach us new things and fill us with knowledge whether that be about animals, wood carving or something he read in National Geographic. I could always rely on his molasses cookies in the red cookie jar or a delicious piece of toast with creamy, NOT CRUNCHY, Jif peanut butter.”  “ I can’t help but smile when thinking about his legendary afternoon naps, and notorious love for Red Hook every evening. I will remember my grandpa for his unfailing support and pride in each of us. My grandpa was incredibly kind and always looking to make people laugh.”  “I’ll always remember his kind smile around his loved ones and his ability to nap anytime, anywhere."

We miss our father and grandfather dearly.   

Phil was preceded in death by his wife, Marleen, and his parents, Herbert and Muriel Bain. Phil is survived by his daughter and his son-in-law, Christy Bain Smith and Michael Smith, his granddaughters Mimi and Violet, his grandsons Nathan and Andrew, and his great-grandson, Kai Philippe of Ellensburg, Washington and Denver; his daughter, Amy Bain, and his granddaughters Elle and Saadiya of Peoria, Arizona; his son and his daughter-in-law, Martin Bain and Mitzi Miller, his granddaughter, Kate, and his grandson, Andrew of Reno, Nevada; his sister-in-law, Marisa Bain of Columbus, Ohio; his nephews Jim Bain (Julie), Stephen Bain (Michelle), Hatuey Infante Castellanos (Marie), JJ Bain and his nieces Ellen Bain, Marie Lourdess Infante Lessells (Doug) Marisol Infante and Maria Bain Ferraro (John), as well as many grandnieces and grandnephews.

Marian E. Roe Miller Fleming, went to be with her Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ according to John 14:1-4 on Friday, December 15, 2023. Born on December 31, 1925, in Butler, PA, to the late William Carl Roe and the late Elizabeth Biehl Roe. Marian graduated from Muskingum College. She worked as a social worker at Catholic Social Services. Marian was a founding member of Westminster PCA Church. She was instrumental in establishing Young Life in Butler and was part of the Evangelism Explosion witness program for Jesus Christ. Marian is survived by her two sons, Bradley K. Miller of Lynchburg, VA, and Brian D. Miller and his wife, Janie of Bristow, VA; two daughters, Karen D. Graham and her husband, Jerry of Butler, PA, Donna Dail and her husband, Roy of Greensburg, PA; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her first husband, John W. "Jack" Miller, who she married on July 19, 1952, and who passed away in July 2003; second husband, Donald P. Fleming, who she married on December 30, 2006, and who passed away in December 2013; one brother Carl A. "Bud" Roe; and one sister, Dorothy Mae Roe Orsborn; and one daughter, Diane Fleming.

Nancy (Paddock) Allen died Dec. 3, 2023, in Portland at the age of 87 years. She was born June 22, 1936, in Lakewood, Ohio. Nancy grew up in North Olmsted, Ohio and Richfield, Ohio where she developed a love of farming, gardening, and animals that remained at her core for the rest of her life. She graduated Muskingum College and completed her doctorate at Case Western University, later becoming Chief Psychologist at Brooklyn Jewish Medical Center and Kings County Hospital in New York City, N.Y., followed by many years of family counseling in private practice. She spent many happy days sailing with her family and enjoying nature in New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Maine, and Chester Basin, Nova Scotia. Nancy was one of those rare, truly kind human beings. She always had a smile for everyone and she never, ever 'didn't have time' to talk or to listen. Nancy will always be remembered for her unbounded patience and a lifetime devoted to helping others in her clinical practice professionally, in her spiritual practice with the church, and in her daily practice toward her many close friends and family members. Her compassion, independence and energy will never be forgotten by her loving family who were fortunate to share her life into her final days. She is survived by her children David (Nanette) and Christopher (Jennifer), her stepchildren Bruce (Blair) and Cynthia (Sylvia); her brother, Don (Kim); her grandchildren Richard (Bianca), Geoffrey, Andrew, Christopher (Allison), and Nicholas; and her great-grandchildren Margaret, Ava, Lila, and Evan. She was preceded in death by her parents Roger and Helen Paddock; and her husband and inseparable companion of 43 years, Dr. John E. Allen.

Margo Jean Chamberlain, known for saying again and again that she wanted to be "happy, healthy, happy, healthy, dead" died September 11, 2020.

Margo was born on October 21, 1943 in Akron, OH to Richard Knollin Chamberlain and Margaret Eleanor Fisher Chamberlain. After she was graduated from Buchtel High School (1961), she earned her BA from Muskingum College, New Concord, OH (1965), spent her junior year (1963/64) at The Institute for American Universities in Aix-en-Provence, France, and earned a MLS from the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana (1967), and was ordained into the Divine Science ministry June 1998 by Brooks Divinity School in Denver, Colorado.

Margo is survived by her stepson, Billy Pepper and his family as well as her nephew, Philippe Knollin Chamberlain and her niece, Mallory Lozano Chamberlain.

Margo's life was significantly influenced by the book "Your Money or Your Life" by Joe Dominguez and Vicki Robin, Werner Erhard, Gurumayi, Emma Curtis Hopkins, Brooks Divinity School, Abraham's Law of Attraction and Access Consciousness which taught her to live into the question. She never stopped asking: "What else is possible?" and "How does it get better than this?"

Margo came into her own authentic self as an elder. She is best remembered for gathering people in her home to learn, discuss and question the difficult subjects of aging, money and death. She shared her resources generously and truly loved her friends.

Shirley S. Coulter of Hillsborough passed away on November 2, 2023. She was born on November 2, 1929 in Flint, MI to Ralph Christy Shellito and Helen Barnes Shellito. The family was originally from Grove City, PA and moved back there when Shirley was one year old. She graduated from Muskingham College with degrees in math and home economics. She married Douglas Coulter on August 7 1954 and taught home economics until their first child was born. After the early death of her husband, she worked for many years at AT&T. She was a long-time member of the Hillsborough Presbyterian Church where she loved to sing in the choir, served as a deacon and enjoyed being the Treasurer for many years. She enjoyed sewing and gardening, but most of all she enjoyed being Mom and Grandma. She is fondly recalled as always having a kind word to share. Shirley is survived by one sister, Carolyn S. Phillippe, a son John Coulter, two daughters, Julia (John) Fetchko and Celia Coulter, four grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, husband and sister Marilyn S. Nichol.

JoAnn Ilene Wyler, 86, passed away January 27, 2021. Born in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, she lived most of her life in Tallmadge.

JoAnn retired as a teacher and counselor at Cuyahoga Falls City Schools after 35 years and was a member of First Congregational Church of Tallmadge. She was a member of the Springfield, PA Order of the Eastern Star, Cuyahoga Valley Civitan Service Club and Tallmadge Women’s Country Study Club. JoAnn was an avid reader, master baker, known for the best pies in the world, and loved spending time with her grandkids more than anything.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Elfrieda Walker.

JoAnn is survived by her husband of 64 years, Carle; daughter, Joan (Raymond) Pinkerton; son, Scott (Essie) Wyler; grandchildren, Victoria, Adam, Anthony, Alexander; and great grandchild on the way, Esmé; sister, Donna Douglass of Hampton Twp, PA.

Carle Edwin Wyler, 88, passed away peacefully April 29, 2022.

Born in Coshocton, Ohio, Carle lived in Tallmadge for most of his life.  He retired in 1994 from Cuyahoga Falls Board of Education after 37 years of service as a school administrator. Carle was an avid antique John Deere collector.  He was a member of the Cuyahoga Valley Civitan Club and Holmes County Steam & Engine Club.  He loved gardening and traveling.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, JoAnn.

Carle is survived by his daughter, Joan (Raymond) Pinkerton of Tallmadge; son, Scott (Essie) Wyler of Fulton, MD; grandchildren, Victoria, Adam, Anthony and Alexander; great grandchildren, Esmé and Marie (on the way).; and brother, Samuel Wyler.

Sally Hutchman Patterson passed away peacefully Nov. 28, 2023, at age 94 at her Board and Care home in Fountain Valley, Calif. Sally was born Sarah Jane Hutchman in Boston, Massachusetts to Paul and Mary Hutchman Nov. 18, 1929. She was raised in East Liverpool, Ohio and went by Sally.

After graduating from Muskingum College, she married Milton Patterson and they had one son, Michael. The family moved to California and lived in Glendale where Mike was raised. In the mid 1980s, Sally got the urge to move back east and lived in South Pomfret, Vermont (right next to Woodstock) for 26 years. In 2013, Sally moved back to California to be closer to Mike and his family.

Sally was beautiful, kind and perpetually happy. She was an artist and musician. She not only sketched skillfully, but she also hand painted eggs that could have been sold at a handsome profit, but decided to keep them for her own enjoyment. Her musical talents were broad. Not only did she sing beautifully (she sang in the Glendale Presbyterian Church Choir), but she also played numerous musical instruments. Her piano was her favorite, but she also dabbled in the French Horn along with shorter stints at other various instruments. She wrote music, as well.

Sally (aka “GG Sally” — short for great grandma Sally) is survived by her son Mike, daughter-in-law Julie and grandchildren Jeffrey (spouse Megan), Douglas (spouse Courtney), and great-grandchildren Jake, Georgia, June, Baxter and Daisy; siblings Bill Hutchman (Jan), John Hutchman (Sue) and Gracie Hutchman Scott; along with numerous nieces and nephews since she was the third oldest of nine Hutchman children.

Dr. Paul Leroy Morris, 98, of Homeville, PA, passed away on December 8, 2023 in Interlochen, MI.

He attended Muskingum College and The Ohio State University.

Dr. Morris worked for Muskingum College and Interlochen Center for the Arts.

He served in the U.S. Navy.

In order to honor Dr. Morris's memory, donations can be made to Muskingum University - Morris Family Scholarship, Interlochen Center for the Arts, and Interlochen Public Library.

Judith Enstrom Blumle was born April 17, 1939 and died January 19, 2022. 

Judy loved her dogs. With her husband Charles “Doc” Blumle she experienced many great adventures in her lifetime, such as backpacking Mt. Whitney in the high Sierras (elevation 14,505ft.) and rafting in the Grand Canyon on the mighty Colorado. She shall be missed by all who knew her. 

Carol Jean Fairchild, age 80 of Cambridge, passed away on Monday, December 4, 2023 at the Cambridge Place. She was born on January 25, 1943 in Cambridge, an only child of the late Raymond and Thelma (Braden) Thompson. Mrs. Fairchild was graduate of Cambridge High School. She received her bachelors in music education from Muskingum College. She had taught piano lessons from her home for over 30 years. She was a music teacher, choir director and organist for Ninth Street United Methodist Church, Second Presbyterian Church and Unity Presbyterian Church, where she retired from in 2016. Carol started playing piano when she was 3 years old. She enjoyed being a part of the Serendipity Circle and participating in the youth plays and pageants. Carol received an award from the Cambridge Singers for her accomplishments in the community with her musical talents and services. Surviving are: her husband of 52 years, Wayne E. Fairchild; their daughters, Lisa (Shane) Cunningham of Cambridge and Wendy (Philip) Biddle of Cambridge; grandchildren, Madison, Emily, Winona, Amanda, Kaitlyn and Brayden; and a great granddaughter Addie. Carol enjoyed and never missed any of her grandchildren's extra curricular activities.

Joe David Arganbright, age 80, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, passed away on November 28, 2023 after unfortunate complications from a fall and subsequent pneumonia at Mt. Carmel East Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.  He was surrounded by the support, love and care of his children and grandchildren. Joe was born on April 28, 1943 in West Jefferson, Ohio, to Ray and Oleta (Zucker) Arganbright. He is survived by his three children; Rick (Mo) Arganbright of Lancaster, Ohio, Julie (Scott) Walters of Pataskala, Ohio, and Christine Farris (Scott Peacock) of Delaware, Ohio, brother Deane (Sue) Arganbright of Spokane, Washington, and brother Jim, aka Jiggers (Shirley) Arganbright of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, sister in law, Joanne Jamieson of Carbondale, Illinois and sister in law Peggy (Joe) Scono of Daniels, West Virginia. Joe was blessed and is survived by grandchildren: William Guillion (Amanda) (Little Willie), Kurt Arganbright, Chelsea Arganbright, Amber Farris, Michael Farris, Chelsea (Greg) Wilson and Lenae (Mike) Walters as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a multitude of friends who are left to cherish his memory. Joe was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Oleta Arganbright, twin brother John Arganbright and nephew Todd Arganbright. Joe attended Grandview Heights schools and graduated in 1961. Joe was a stand out athlete participating as co captain of both basketball and baseball teams and is recognized in the GHHS Hall of Fame. He was recognized as "the best school citizen and friendliest boy with the best personality" in his senior year. These qualities rang true of Joe throughout his life. The Grandview community was always dear to Joe's heart. He served on Grandview's City Council in his early 20s.

After high school, Joe played four years of basketball and baseball while attending Muskingum College in New Cord, Ohio. Joe is recognized in the Muskingum Hall of Fame. He joined the Mace Fraternity and made many lifelong friends. Joe went on to attend Ohio University in Athens, Ohio where he earned his master's degree in business. One of Joe's greatest accomplishments was the creation of his insurance business. Joe started Tabit Arganbright & Associates with a beloved friend and business partner, Margaret Tabit, in 1976. Thereafter, in 2003, Jay Hazelbaker merged with Joe and Margaret to establish Tabit Arganbright Hazelbaker (TAH Benefits.) This enterprise of partners and clients became a treasured extended family for Joe. Over the course of Joe's life, he was a member of many clubs and organizations, too many to mention. Joe's personality was large. He never met a stranger. He was able to connect with each and every person he met through genuine interest and selfless listening skills. Throughout life, Joe loved the art of "pulling pranks."  Among his favorites was his infamous "Circle Game" and his impersonation of "Carnac the Magnificent."  Needless to say, Joe was a happy and fun loving person who cherished his family and many friends. He will be so missed.

Roger H. Covert, age 82 of the Kahite Neighborhood, Vonore, Tennessee passed away December 02, 2023.

Roger was born on July 11, 1941 in Glendale, West Virginia to parents Harry and Pearl Covert (deceased). He graduated from high school, Linsly Military Institute in Wheeling, West Virginia. There he was awarded the John W. Zimmer Memorial Award for Outstanding Linsly Athlete. He attended Muskingum College in Ohio where he played football.

In 1963 Roger joined the Army and was stationed in Augsburg Germany for 3 years. He finished his Bachelor of Arts degree at Bethany College in Bethany, West Virginia. Then in 1976, Roger married Marianne Vitz.

He worked for GTE in the State of Ohio Office located in Marion, Ohio for 14 years. After that he held several management positions in various companies in the Central Ohio area. He retired from Mid Ohio Packing Company in Marion, Ohio.

Survivors include his wife, Marianne Covert; son Christopher Covert (Melissa) and two special grandsons, Matthew and Nicholas Covert.

Mr Copeland (William Cleland Copeland) who was born in New Castle PA., died peacefully at home in Tucson, AZ on August 27 of 2023. He was 93 years old.

Bill Copeland grew up in New Castle, PA., Wheeling WV, and Dormont (Pittsburgh) PA. He graduated Muskingum College, New Concord, Ohio, in 1951, then did graduate work at The University of Pittsburgh (Psychology), Pittsburgh-Xenia Theological Seminary, and the University of Chicago Divinity School, where he was a Rockefeller Scholar. He served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1958 , in the Public Information Office of the 85th Infantry Regiment, 10th Infantry Division, in Bamberg, Germany (where he met and married his wife Lotte in 1957), in the U.S Army Military Intelligence School of Oberammergau, Germany, and then as Intelligence Translator (German language) in G-2, 7th Army Hqs., Stuttgart, Germany.

On his return to the U.S., he worked at the American Hospital Association in Chicago as Supervisor of the National Census of Hospitals and the Hospital Guide Issue and Statistics of American Hospitals and in 1961, he entered the graduate program of biostatistics at the University of Minnesota, as an NIGMS Fellow. From 1963 to 1969 he worked for the Minneapolis-based Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (later the American Rehabilitation Foundation) as a statistician and policy analyst. As his research results and publications became known he opened a Washington Research Group office in Washington D.C. for the Foundation in 1966. There he began to work with State and local governments on ways of accessing additional Federal revenue for those governments, using the revenue as an incentive to building community services for alcoholics, AFDC mothers who wanted to join the labor force and disabled persons (Who or who were at that time often institutionalized because there were no community services). As a lifelong democrat, he was a champion of progressive causes and was successful working across the aisle to implement programs. With the election of Richard Nixon in 1968, he was asked by the new Department of Health, Education and Welfare (HEW) Under-Secretary, Jack Veneman, to work on the HEW transition team. After a short time there, he worked as an outside liaison between the Department and State and local governments, which continued until 1972, when Regan-related executives took over the Department. The work he did in that period contributed much to the development of Title XX of the Social Security Act (now the Social Services Block-Grant)- the basis for beginning the building of community health and welfare services and the beginning of the end for many of the large institutions of that time. The building of that program, and some of Cope-land's work, is described in Martha Derthick's 1976 National Book Award winning- Uncontrollable Spending For Social Services.

Mr. Copeland left the American Rehabilitation Foundation in 1969 and joined the Urban Institute as a senior fellow until 1970, when he left to start his own consulting firm, Copeland and Associate;, Inc., which continued as an active force in health and human services fields until the early 2000's.

From 1976 to 1983, with the generous help of Professors Nancy Eustis and John Brandl, he taught in the University of Minnesota Graduate School's Hubert H. Humphrey Institute for Public Affairs. While there, he developed a federal financing approach to deinstitutionalization of the aged and disabled (with Iver A. Iverson) which, in working with activists in the field, such as Tom Gilhool of Philadelphia Public Interest Law Firm (Pilcop) and Linda Glenn (who developed the first system for providing housing and services for persons leaving institutions in Nebraska- ENCOR), OMB staff, and Congressional Offices (especially that of Representative Waxman of California).

That approach became the Home and Community Based Services Act of 1981. With the passage of the ACT, the Federal Department of Health & Human Services asked Copeland to work with States and teach them how to define state budgets for deinstitutionalization in such a way that the 150,000+ beds in state institutions could be closed. Then beginning a 20-year consulting partnership with Linda Glenn, the firm participated in planning, in detail, with five states, for the complete closure of all institutions. The results of the Act have been so popular that it expanded in scope and size many times by bi-partisan majorities, so that large state institutions have declined from 150,000 census in 1980 to about 30,000 today, and about 400,000 persons are now receiving community services in their own homes or in small- apartment programs.

After the completion of a very large project in Georgia, which returned more than $3 billion in new Federal funds to the state- much of which was spent in reforming children's services and extending the Medicaid program, most of Mr. Copeland's partners and subcontractors retired- and so did Copeland. He and Lotte, his wife since 1957, after having lived for more than 30 years in Minneapolis, moved to Tucson, AZ in 1997.

Copeland had a genuine curiosity and deep interest in people. He would always listen intently to truly hear and understand what they were saying. When Bill talked, people listened because he offered meaningful insights. His work was his passion, and he was always game for a new venture, right to his last day. When Bill got involved, things started to happen. Bill maintained many connections within the halls of power but chose to surround himself with all kinds of people and never denied anyone a helping hand in any way within his power.

It should be noted that Copeland enjoyed working partnerships with a number of very capable people who shared the same social goals: Iver. A. Iverson, Eugene Lourey and Rocco D’Amico, Linda Glenn, Norman Zimlich and Carl Valentine, Tony Lourey, Richard Mann, Dr. Barry Griffin, Michael DeVegter, David Kleinberg, Mike Davis and the late Victor Kugajevski. He became a lifetime friend and mentor of those he worked with. He never lost contact with each one. They have repeatedly let the family know how important he was in their lives.

Copeland also enjoyed the long-time friendship of college, grad school and Army friends: his college roommate and lifelong friend, the late Professor Bruce Brackenridge, his wife Mary Ann Rossi and children, Professor David Marshall and Thompson Bradley, the late Dan Potter, Dr. Robert Schneck, David Doth, Sister-in-law Elfi Wehner and her partner, Guenter Herr, in Bamberg, Germany.

He was the youngest and last surviving child of The Reverend Doctor Samuel Bruce Copeland and Margaret Wilson Copeland. His siblings Jean Copeland Basnett, John Wilson Copeland and Samuel Bruce Copeland, Jr., died earlier. He is survived by his wife, Lotte B. Copeland, children Katherine Copeland Anderson (Andre) and David Bruce Copeland (Amanda), and his eight grandchildren.

Most of all, Bill was a loving husband and supporting father who passed on a legacy that will continue to drive his children and grandchildren to great heights.

Marjorie Ruth (Cook) Stullenburger passed away peacefully during the early hours of Tuesday November 7, 2023 at Spring Home in Galloway, NJ at the age of 93. She had lived at Spring Home since 2017.

“Marj”, as known by her family and friends, was born in Pittsburgh, PA on May 3, 1930. She was born in the second floor bedroom of a house owned by her German immigrant grandparents, Conrad & Louise Storz.

Marj grew up in Wheeling, WV, attending Park View Grade School, Mt. De Chantal Visitation Academy and Triadelphia High School. After graduating from high school in 1947 Marj attended Muskingum College in New Concord, OH, where she graduated in 1951 with a major in Education. There she met the love of her life, her husband, Harold “Stoney” Stullenburger.

Marj and Stoney were married in the United Presbyterian Church in Wheeling, WV, in 1951. As a new college graduate, her first job was as an elementary school teacher at Wheeling Country Day School. In 1953, Marj became a full time house mother, giving birth to her first child, Mark. In 1955 and 1958 she gave birth to daughters, Melinda and Marcia.

In 1968, Marj, her husband, Stoney, and children relocated to Millville, NJ. During her time in Millville, besides being a devoted mother, Marj was employed for 12 years by the Millville Board of Education, as a special education teacher at the Wood Elementary School and Holly Heights Elementary School. After her teaching career, Marj was employed for over 30 years as a real estate sales agent/broker with Coldwell Banker McClain-Heller Realty in Vineland, NJ.

During Marj’s teaching and real estate career’s Marj always prided herself in her desire of helping those with special needs. She believed that obtaining an education and owning a home were key to a person’s sense of wellbeing and success in life. She served as the Board President on Affordable Homes, a volunteer social service organization that helped those in need obtain home ownership. With her tenacious desire to help others, Marj was known as a force to be reckoned with. She never backed down when trying to help those in need.

Besides her professional career Marj was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. She was always looking for ways to help her children and grandchildren have better lives. She was the rock of the family and will be missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold J. “Stoney” Stullenburger, son-in-law, Steven Muenker (Melinda), parents George Cook and Frieda (Storz) Cook.

Marj is survived by her son Mark Stullenburger (Janice), daughters Melinda Stullenburger-Muenker, and Marci Stullenburger (James), granddaughters Lindsay Stullenburger (Robert) and Amy Stullenburger Akers (James), and great granddaughter June Akers.

Drew Alexander Hendley, 52 of Zanesville died Sunday, November 19, 2023.

He was born February 18, 1971 in Zanesville, Ohio the  son of Albert Horace Hendley Jr. and  Susan Jane Beck Hendley.

Drew   was a employed as a tennis coach in Florida for many years & also enjoyed golf.

In addition to his parents, Drew is survived by a brother, Albert "Al" Horace (Candace) Hendley III; a niece, Rebekah Hendley; two nephews, Joshua Hendley & Evan A. Hendley.

Theodore Lesiak, age 84, of Medina, Ohio, passed away on November 23, 2023. He was born to Steve and Frances (Wisniewski) Lesiak on October 28, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio. Theodore graduated from Muskingum College with a degree in economics and John Carroll University with a Master's Degree in Educational Administration. He taught high school and coached. He then became a Professional Buyer with several retail companies: The Higbee Company, Forest City, Elder-Beerman and The Bon Ton company.

After retirement, he volunteered extensively for his church and community. He was a faithful member of St. Francis Xavier in Medina. Theodore spent numerous years driving people to their appointments with the Medina Co. Office for Older Adults and was on the Board of Zoning Appeals for Montville Township. He was the former president of Fox Meadows Homeowners and a trustee for Country Lakes Homeowners Associations. Theodore was an avid Cleveland sports fan.

Theodore is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carolyn Lesiak, whom he married on November 28, 1963; he was fiercely proud of his children, Theodore J. (Jennifer) Lesiak, Lisa (Eric) Ohanian, Timothy (Vicky) Lesiak, and Stephanie (Patrick) Bailey; his grandchildren, Nicolas (Nikki) Ohanian, Sarah Lesiak, Patrick Ohanian, Trey Lesiak, Alec DeBruler, Jacob Lesiak, and Jocelyn Bailey; his great grandsons, Lucas and Grayson Ohanian; his brother, Thomas (Ellen) Lesiak; and numerous nieces and nephews, colleagues and friends. He was preceded by his parents, and his siblings, Virginia Piotrowski and Walter Lesiak.

Donald E. Elavsky, 84, of Columbus, Ohio passed peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, November 12, 2023 after a brief stay at Carriage Court of Grove City. He was born October 6, 1939 to Edward and Susan Elavsky in Massillon, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Pat Elavsky Converse. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Diane; sons, David (Ronda) and John (Stacey); grandchildren, Colten, Cameron (Brooke), Kara (Cory), Tyler (Tess), and three precious great-grandchildren, Berkleigh, Jireh, and Lena; sister, Cheryl (Al); and brother, Rick Elavsky; along with many other family and friends. Don graduated from Massillon Washington High School in 1957 where he was a proud Massillon "Tiger". He then went on to Muskingum College, majoring in Earth Science and Geology, graduating in 1961. This is where he met his future wife Diane who he married in 1962. He became a beloved science teacher in the South Western City School District first at Prairie Norton, then at Norton Middle School, and finally at Westland High School. Don enjoyed coaching his son's sports teams and coached football at the Middle School, High School and College levels. Don served as an assistant football coach and then Head Coach at Westland High School before serving as an assistant coach at Capital University for 15 years. He was an active member at St. Paul Lutheran Church involved as the former leader of the men's group, played dartball, attended Bible Study, and enjoyed fellowship with his St. Paul family. He also was an avid backyard gardener, loved to fish, enjoyed many years of traveling to Canada with his family, fellow teachers, and his wife. He also enjoyed trips to Florida but most of all loved spending time with his family. Don simply enjoyed life and enjoyed conversing with others. It was said on more than one occasion Don "Never met a Stranger"

Raymond A. McGeary, 83, passed away at home on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, surrounded by family. He is survived by his loving wife Gay O. McGeary, son R. Jeffrey McGeary (Susan), grandchildren Olivia L. McGeary and Colton E. McGeary, daughter Meghan McGeary (Chih Kwang), and brother Clyde M. McGeary. His parents were Martha Harriet Mills McGeary and Charles Everett McGeary. He is predeceased by brothers K. Charles McGeary, Frank L. McGeary, Glenn E. McGeary, and sister Martha A. Pifer. Ray, Class of '62, graduated from Muskingum University with a bachelor's degree in history and went on to receive his law degree from Duke University School of Law, Class of '65.He became a Trust & Estates banker and resided for many years in Sewickley, Pennsylvania before moving to Carlisle and spending time as the Director of Development for Dickinson School of Law. In retirement, Ray enjoyed the study of history, antiques, books and clocks. He was a long-standing member of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors, Chapter 158. He served the community as a member of the Exchange Club, and as a member of the Cumberland County Historical Society.

Dennis (Denny) Richmond Barlow, 80, of Newcomerstown, passed away at home on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. He was born in 1943 in Fitchburg, MA, to the late Clement and Harriet Barlow. When he was 12, his father moved the Family to Newcomerstown, OH, to manage the Hellers (Simons) manufacturing plant. After graduating from Newcomerstown High School in 1961, he attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts for two years before being drafted into the Army. After fulfilling his obligations to the United States of America, he decided he wanted to meet the love of his life. Just so happens that his future wife was a student at Muskingum University. After courting and falling head over heels for a young Deanna Durben, he decided he might as well get a dual degree in Business and Chemistry while there. Shortly after graduation, they snuck away to get married, thus making Ms. Durben, Mrs. Barlow. From that point forward, they proceeded to create a loving family. Said Family is currently crying, laughing, and reminiscing on how to describe our Family in an appropriate amount of words. Anyways, Denny and Deanna's Family consists of their lovely daughter Tammy and her husband Jeff (Zimmer), their late but impossible-to-forget son Christopher Barlow, basically son Anthony Roe and his wife Staci, kind of adopted son Seth James Barlow as a late addition, and two all-star grandchildren, Alexis and Logan Zimmer. Denny had a successful career as a plant production manager at Dover Chemical, but he thrived through his involvement in the community, endless passions, and hobbies. He was a proud and distinguished Free Mason, becoming a member of Lone Star Lodge #175 and Valley of Cambridge Scottish Rite, awarded the honorary 33 degree in 2017. He served on the school board of both Newcomerstown and Buckeye Career Center for many years. Denny was a self-proclaimed chef, cooking Masonic spaghetti dinner fundraisers, preparing breakfast for the fellowship of Isleta United Methodist Church, and roasting the most delicious Thanksgiving turkey. As a younger man, Denny played football, camped at Hickory Hollow, and enjoyed sailing and building sailboats. Later, his infatuation with the sea shifted from the water to the sky, and he became a Coshocton County Cloud Climbers model aviation club member. Over time, the New England man developed into a true country boy, enjoying hunting, fishing, raising a garden (most recently in a barrel), tapping trees and making authentic Ohio maple syrup, and helping the kids with their 4-H animals. When he wasn't pursuing one of his passions, he buggy'd around the property and neighborhood, solving the world's problems with the best friends and most wonderful neighbors he could have asked for or whoever might have cold beer on hand. He was a remarkable and beloved husband, father, and friend who will be deeply missed. 

Brian W. Armstrong, age 71, of Canton passed away November 6, 2023, surrounded by his loving family following a valiant fight against ALS. He was born in Canton on June 7, 1952, to Charles and Betty (Schwalenberg) Armstrong and graduated from Sebring High School, Muskingum College, where he met the love of his life, Nancy. Brian also graduated from the University of Akron with his Master's Degree in Counseling. Brian dedicated his career to the education and coaching fields. He spent over 40 years at Northwest High School, where he founded the Cross Country Team and coached basketball and track. Brian is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters Julie (Michael) Dolfi and Ashley (Matthew) Eiden; grandchildren Ella Dolfi and Brett, Palmer, and Avery Eiden; brother Bruce (Donna) Armstrong. 

Hilda Lucille (Merritt) Pfouts, age 87, passed away on November 5, 2023. Born in Caldwell, OH to Harry and Lavona Merritt, she was an only child. Graduated from Caldwell High School in 1953. She went to Muskingum College and received her bachelors degree in elementary education. She took her first teaching position at McGregor Elementary School in Canton, OH. Soon after, she fell in love and married Ronald L. Pfouts on June 17, 1961.She took time off from teaching to raise two sons, Jeff and Douglas; and a daughter, Ann. While raising three children, she returned to her passion, education. After, Jeff, Doug and Ann grew up she took a position as a childrens librarian at the Massillon Public Library where she retired. She was an avid genealogist following the Merritt, McKee, and Pfouts family lines, to name a few, and assisted with genealogy of the soldiers at Fort Laurens in Bolivar, OH. Survived by her children and grandchildren, Jeff and Lisa Pfouts (Justin and Emily), Douglas Pfouts (Cody and Katelyn), and Ann and Willis McCoy (Nathan and Alex).