Samuel T. Pompili “Sam”

Pompili Samuel Timothy “Sam”, Age 81. Loving father of Vincent Pompili & Kimberly Binns (Brian); grandfather to Mercedes Binns & Alison Alicea (Esteban); son of late Sergio & Lenora Pompili; brother of Delores (Charles) Miserendino, identical twin to Peter Pompili (deceased), Catherine Sypniewski (David), Mary Koslowski (David) and nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Sam’s parents were 100% Italian. He grew up in Seven Hills Ohio, lived in Garfield Hts OH for many years, and later settled in Parma Hts OH. Graduate of Holy Name High School. He was a Veteran of the US Air Force where he received the small arms expert marksmanship ribbon, an AF good conduct medal, and the national defense service medal. He was part of the 28th Field Maintenance Squadron, stationed at Ellsworth Air Force base in South Dakota. He served our nation for 4 years before receiving an honorable discharge.

He began working as an apprentice union carpenter where he learned and mastered his core trade. Later he started his own general contracting business, Sam T Pompili Construction, where he could utilize his full skill set. He built garages, put additions on homes, remodeled interiors of homes, poured concrete driveways, built brick stairs, etc. He showed his son, Vince, everything he knew about the trades. Vince recalls working on job sites with both his grandfather Sergio and his father Sam. 3 generations of Pompili’s, getting dirty and working in the hot sun together is one of his fondest memories. 

Sam was a gun, hunting, and fishing enthusiast. He helped codify a band of hunting brothers that started in the 1970’s and lived on through the next generation. Vince remains a fixture in this group as Sam handed him the right of passage. Sam was also a huge fan of Lake Erie Walleye fishing. You could find him trout fishing in the streams of PA, as well. He enjoyed watching professional football as a BROWNS fan and didn’t like college games much because he said there’s no defense and the scores are too high. The exception was Ohio State of course, he was always on that band wagon! He loved the INDIANS and Herb Score, especially with ice cream. Later he accepted Tom Hamilton and whatever they call themselves now. He liked the CAVS and got to see the 5’7” Spud Web dunk the ball live! He played the accordion very well. He even played it live on the Polka Varieties TV show in the 60s. At about 11 years old, Sam, his sister Catherine, and their classmates named the Parma City School, Valley Forge by entering & winning a contest when that school was built. He was a part of Ohio’s Northcoast Jitterbug Connection as he had a passion for dancing as well. He was in bowling leagues, gun clubs, and even enjoyed playing pool. He tried to convert the world to play Bocci Ball on the lawn instead of those boring courts. He never smoked or drank more than one beer and was a major history buff all his life.   

Sam was a devout Catholic throughout his life. He strongly impressed these values on his family. When he couldn’t attend St. Charles Borromeo Church in Parma anymore, he made sure to get his weekly regimen of communion from a kind eucharistic minister of the parish who delivered the body of Christ to him. He prayed every night while he rode his exercise bike.

His daughter Kim helped take care of him and provided him with everything he needed to survive comfortably when he couldn’t provide for himself anymore. She took him to doctors’ appointments and managed his medication as well. He also had help from others like the nurses from the Veterans Administration, his niece Heather, and his son. He received the attention he deserved. He cherished his relationship with his late Aunt and Godmother, Eleanor Molleson, who was a guardian angel to him for as long as she lived. He relied on the Veterans Hospital for medical care of which he always said did a fine job. They even gave him new knees to go the extra miles.

Sam will be missed deeply by his family and friends. His 81 years of life had a positive impact on the lives of many people.

SERVICES TO BE ANNOUNCED AT A LATER DATE

Mary Jane Reeves

Mary Jane Reeves age 83, of Independence, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 9, 2026. Beloved wife of the late Richard S. Reeves Sr. Devoted mother of Richard Reeves II (deceased), and Chris Shainoff. Cherished grandmother of Nicholas and Austin Shainoff. Private Services were held.

Constance R. Doan

Constance (Connie) Doan went to be with The Lord on January 31, 2026 at the age of 87. Preceded in death by the love of her life James Doan.  Loving mother of Chris, Mike (Judi) and Patti Doan.  Sweetest Grandmother to Jennifer, Jacob, Kyle, Karlie and Parker.  Great grandmother to Jaxson, Megan, Derek, Jolene, Micah, Jaiden and Devin.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 from 5-7 p.m. at Vito-Nero Funeral Home 6130 Turney Rd. Garfield Hts., OH 44125

Memorial mass will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 10:00 a.m at St John Nepomucene Church 3785 Independence Rd. Cleveland, OH 44105.

In lieu of flowers donations are being requested for the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter. 9500 Sweet Valley Dr. Valley View, OH 44125.

Jim Kowalski

Jim Kowalski, age 59, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026. He was born on February 21, 1966, in Cleveland, Ohio, and spent his life cherishing every moment with his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his beloved children, Jayme Kowalski (son) and Theresa Kowalski (daughter), as well as his stepchildren, Tara Shores, Timmy Shores, and Tracey Shores. He was a proud grandfather to TaylorShores, Timmy Shores, Summer Shores, Peyton Kowalski, Conner Shores, and Logan Shores. He is also survived by his brother, Rich Kowalski, and his brother and sister-in-law, Stan and Julie Kowalski, along withhis sister, Kathy Dowdy. His cherished nephews, Eric, Chris, and Nick Kowalski, and niece, Kristy Rachal, will forever remember him fondly.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Stanley S. Kowalski, mother, Theresa e. Sieniemtkowski, and his brother, Benny Kowalski.

Known for his warm heart and infectious laughter, Jim loved cooking out, spending time outdoors in the sunshine, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. Yet, his greatest joy came from the time he spent with his kids, family, and friends, creating memories that will be treasured forever. A man of faith, Jim believed in God and found comfort in his faith throughout his life.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Vito-Nero Funeral Home 6130 Turney Rd. Garfield Hts., OH 44125 on Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. (Prayers at 6:30 p.m.)

Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had thepleasure of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

John Francis Burke

John Francis Burke, a longtime resident of Garfield Hts. Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026 at the age of 94. He was born on June 22, 1931 to the late Anthony Burke and Viola (nee Koehnle). Preceded in death his brother Tony Burke and sister Marie Carey. Beloved husband of Irene L. Burke(nee Gulyban), sharing 69 years of marriage. Father of Edward (deceased), Marian (Tom Young), Kathleen (Jeff Gosciniak), Jim and Christine (Larry Burgess). Grandfather of 11 and Great grandfather of 2. After graduating from Holy Name High school and John Carroll University, John served in the Army. Upon receiving his honorable discharge, he obtained his Master of Education from Western Reserve University and was a long-time assistant principal at John Marshall and other Cleveland High Schools. He earned his Doctor of Education at Kent State University. After retirement he was the principal of Our Lady of Angels. With his love and talent in music, John directed the St Therese Choir and the Eastside Irish American Club Choir.

Funeral Mass Monday February 9th at10AM at St. Therese Church 5276 E.105th Garfield Hts. Ohio 44125 Interment Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Sunday February 8th from 2-5PM at VITO-NERO FUNERAL HOME 6130 TURNEY RD.GARFIELD HTS. In lieu of flowers please donate to St, Therese Church.

Amberly DiPadova

Amberly DiPadova (née Vincent), age 71, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. She was born on January 3, 1955.

Amberly was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Faith Vincent; her two young children, Kathy and Paul, whom she tragically lost in a house fire in 1977; her first husband, Paul Worthing; her second husband, Richard DiPadova; and her life partner, Joe Boyd. Her sister Jackie Taylor, and David Bohnen.

She is survived by her siblings Bill Vincent (Mary Ellen), Sandy Miller (Bohnen), and her children, Jennifer Worthing Suchy, Sandra Worthing Alves, and Adam DiPadova (wife Viatrez) and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Paul (Vitoria), Faith, Amber, Charlie, James, Brandon (Vesna), Rachael (Steve) Grange the Great (Nikki), great-granddaughter Stella, and great-grandson Marshy; and her niece Vicki (Tyler).

Amberly was known as “Auntie Am” to the Worthing and DiPadova families, and to many others who passed through her life. She wanted it known that she loved her family and friends in her own way.

She enjoyed bowling, Thistledown, nightlife, gambling, heavy metal music, and attending Ozzy concerts, along with traveling, camping with friends, and hiking at South Chagrin Reservation. Amberly worked as a landscaper and took pride in her yard, where she planted and cared for flowers over the years.

Amberly lived life on her own terms and accepted what life provided. She was consistent in her ways and preferences. Her passing closes a long and complicated chapter. She will be remembered by her family for the role she played in their shared history.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 4-6 p.m. at Vito-Nero Funeral Home 6130 Turney Rd. Garfield Hts., OH 44125.

Michael Anthony Walchanowicz

February 7, 1951 – January 10, 2026

Michael “Mike” Walchanowicz entered eternal rest on January 10, 2026. Mike was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend to many. He was known for his friendly personality, love of conversation, and genuine kindness toward everyone he met.

Born and raised in Independence, Mike dedicated his life to his family, his work, and his community. He also served proudly in the United States Army, holding his time in service with great pride.

Mike was married to his beloved wife, Denise (Pasek). He was a proud father to Chris Walchanowicz (Natalie) and Janie Walchanowicz, and a loving grandfather to Addison and Cameron, who were truly the light of his life.

Mike was the owner of Independence Heating & Cooling, a family business he built with dedication, integrity, and pride. He worked closely alongside his son Chris, sharing not only his knowledge of the trade but also the values of honesty, reliability, and strong relationships. Chris will continue the family business, carrying forward Mike’s legacy and his deep commitment to serving the community.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Patricia Walchanowicz, and his brother, Paul Walchanowicz. He is survived by his siblings, Pat Walchanowicz, Linda (Jim) Widzinski, and Tom (Denise) Walchanowicz; his sister-in-law, Karen Carney, and her children Edward Carney, Timothy Carney, and Katie Poulin (Gregory) and their sons Max, Mikey, and AJ, to whom Mike was a devoted great-uncle; and his nieces and nephews Rachel, Erin, Shawn, Noelle, Joseph, and Victor. He was also cherished by many extended family members and friends who held him close.

Outside of work, Mike found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved his dogs and classic Mopars, enjoyed riding his golf cart, sharing a Yukon Jack, and talking with just about anyone—often turning strangers into friends. He especially cherished trips to Frankenmuth, Sandusky, and Myrtle Beach, creating lasting memories with those he loved.

Mike will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and loyal friend whose warmth, humor, and generosity left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Fortuna Funeral Home 7076 Brecksville Rd. Independence, OH 44131 from 4-8 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be Friday, January 16, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church 6912 Chestnut Rd. Independence, OH 44131. (PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH) Followed by burial at Maple Shade Cemetery.

Raymond W. Wagner Jr.

Raymond William Albert Wagner Jr, born on Saturday, January 22, 1955 and made his way home on Friday, January 9, 2026. Ray was well loved by his sunshine, Dolly for over forty years, their love shared touched the lives of many. Ray guided his children, grandchildren and all those in between in the best ways he could, to share his knowledge, problem solving skills and creative abilities. Ray’s legacy carries on in all of our lives.

Join us for a cup of coffee and bakery, to celebrate with Ray’s family and friends, while we share stories, full of laughter and tears to honor a life well lived. Saturday, January 24, 2026 From 2-5pm Miss O’s Cafe12672 Rockside Rd Garfield Hts, OH 44125

Honor Ray in your own way, through a prayer, momentum or donating to a cause in his name.

Marvin G. Smith

Marvin G. Smith age 68, dearly beloved husband of 27 years to Linda (nee Pancoast). Brother of Marilyn Fidler. Preceded in death are sisters-in-law Barbara Reid (nee Pancoast) and Ruth Ann Burns (nee Pancoast). Uncle of Janelle Zoker, Jennifer Zoker, Aymie Burns, Ellie Burns, Carrie Burns, Jesse Burns, Jennifer Reid and Mike Reid. Also, great-uncle and great-great uncle to numerous nieces and nephews of an extended family. Over the years, “Cat Dad” to numerous rescued feline “fur babies”.

Marvin always loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, loved hiking, and road trips. Through the years, he enjoyed many hobbies including photography, running and woodcarving.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Cuyahoga Valley Church, 5055 East Wallings Road, Broadview Heights, OH 44137. Visitation at 10:00 am, service at 11:00 am, with a luncheon following the service.

Due to allergies, in leu of flowers or live plants, donations may be made to Cuyahoga Valley Church Benevolence Fund, Holy Family Hospice, or the Cleveland Animal Protective League.

Thank you so much to the staff of Vito-Nero Funeral Home for being so kind and caring and for the great job of taking care of Marvin’s arrangements.

David A. Terranova

David A. Terranova, 1/13/1951 -12/11/2025. David was preceded in death by his parents John Kemp, and Antoinette (nee Romeo) Robidoux , and Ellen (nee Svoboda) and Sam Terranova. Beloved son in law of Alberta Brown.  Loving father to Tracy, Lori (Jack), Rebecca, Jasmine, and Joslin (Otis) and extra dad to Brandy (Will). Loving grandfather to Kellie, Jeremy, Justin, Allyson (Josh), Natalie, Jacob, Flynn, Daija, Daniel, Brielle, and Kyrie.

Beloved Great-grandfather to Judah, Emerson, Melody, Princess, Meliyah, and  Lauren. Beloved brother to John (Shirley-in heaven as part of his welcoming committee) , Mary Ann, Kathy, and Randy (Sharing in Heaven's peace with David).  Former spouse and beloved friend of Daisy, and former spouse of Bonnie (In heaven playing cards with David). Beloved uncle and great-uncle, and cherished friend to many.

David served proudly in Vietnam from 1970 to 1973. He served as police officer, Sargent and detective for the Woodmere police department until 1993.  He also served the community on the CIRT tactical unit. Additionally, David  served as president of the Ohio Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 (May we never forget) serving other veterans.

David had a life well lived. He was dearly loved by many, and loved his family with all of his heart. Until then.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Vito-Nero Funeral Home 6130 Turney Rd. Garfield Hts., OH 44125 from 2-5 p.m.

Service will be held Monday December 15, 2025 at 10:00 am at the Funeral Home. Followed by burial at Mapleshade Cemetery in Independence, OH.