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Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, 1425 S. Main Street, North Canton, OH (2025)

11/24/2025

Lonnie Ray Freeman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed
away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family on November 20, 2025, at
the age of 90.
Lonnie was born on February 7, 1935, in Newland, North Carolina and lived a life filled with
music, laughter, and love. He shared 43 wonderful years with his wife, Lana Freeman, who
was his steadfast partner and greatest joy. Together they built a family that was the center
of Lonnie’s world.
His passions were simple yet profound. He loved to play country music, played lead guitar
for the String Shifters Band for over 30 years, often filling his home with melodies that
reflected his heart and spirit. He found peace in fishing, spending countless hours by the
water, and treasured every moment spent with his family. His humor, devotion, and gentle
spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He was employed and retired in 2000 from Massillon Community Hospital where he served as a Carpenter in maintenance.
Lonnie’s life was a testament to the values of love, family, and joy in the everyday. His
memory will live on in the songs he played, the stories he told, and the generations he
inspired.
Lonnie is preceded in death by his mother Myra Freeman, Father Joseph Cantrell,
Brothers Stewart Freeman, Hale Freeman, Sisters Anita Sommers and Glenna
Kanatzar.
He is survived by his five children: Johnny (Toniann) Freeman, Cindy (Ron) Smith, Lonnie
(Sandy) Freeman, Lori McAfee, and Todd Burns. Lonnie’s legacy continues through his 10
grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Also survived by his sister Alma Farnsworth,
his sister-in-law Mary Freeman, and numerous very special nieces, nephews, and
cousins in North Carolina, all of whom brought him immense pride and happiness.
A celebration of Lonnie’s life will be held February 7th at the Eagles Club 2223, where family
and friends will gather to honor his memory and share the music and love he so deeply cherished.

11/19/2025

Susan K. Fillinger, age 72 of Canton, OH passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, following a long battle with cancer. She was born on January 14, 1953, in El Paso, TX to the late James R. Brothers and Laverne (Houston) Eddins. She was a graduate of the Ohio School for the Blind. Susan had a heart for music, accomplishing much as a singer, and coached little league baseball. She was a huge fan of the Cleveland Browns, Guardians, Cavs, and The Ohio State Buckeyes. Her greatest accomplishment was raising her four boys on her own. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her siblings, Cheryl Guy and James “Bobby” Brothers Jr.. Susan is survived by her sons: David J. Brothers, Michael “Scott” Fillinger, Donald (Marsha) Fillinger, and John (Megan) Fillinger; grandchildren: Asha, Cameryn, Hazel, Izaiah, Aedyn, and Damon; sisters, Kim Ruof and Lisa Kirk; and dearest friend of 60 years, Ruth Roessler. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Susan’s memory to The Ohio School for the Blind. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

11/11/2025

Betty Jo Boston, age 90 of Canton, OH passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday, November 10, 2025. She was born in Gallipolis, OH on September 18, 1935, to the late Thomas and Lucy (Darst) Metcalf. Betty retired from Teledyne Monarch after 30 years of service. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Melvin Boston; brother, Tommy Metcalf; sisters, Frances Cugini and Susie Carpenter. Betty is survived by her children: Roger (Bandy) Boston, Randy Boston, Sandy (Walt) Erickson, and Brian (Christi) Boston and children; grandchildren: Heather (David) Jarmusch, Derek (Stefanie) Boston, Courtney (Eddie) Mink, Rosalie Lesho, Camilla Boston, and Tannor Boston; many great-grandchildren who miss her dearly; and sisters, Sharon (Ron) Tessmer and Linda Wilkinson. A celebration of Betty’s life will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Marlboro Church of Christ (8533 Ravenna Avenue NE, Louisville, OH 44641). Friends and family may call one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Betty’s memory to The Alzheimer’s Association Greater East Ohio Chapter (https://www.alz.org/eastohio). The family would like to thank Bethany Nursing Home and Crossroads Hospice for their kind and compassionate care. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

11/06/2025

Dennis R. Trachsel, age 79 of Malvern, OH passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. He was born on September 14, 1946, in Canton to the late Ronald and Eirdean (Harsh) Trachsel. He was a member of Beechwood Christian Church in Alliance, where he loved serving as an Elder. He was a 1964 graduate of Jackson High School. Following graduation, Denny served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He will be remembered for his kindness and empathy towards others. Denny is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Connie (Norris) Trachsel; sister, Judy Dremann; and nephew, Jim Jenkins. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Denny’s memory to Beechwood Christian Church (12950 Easton Street NE, Alliance, OH 44601). Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

10/23/2025

Shannon M. Poling, age 38 of Canton, OH passed away on Saturday, October 18, 2025. She was born in Canton on July 16, 1987, to Kristin (Gardner) Johns and the late Kenneth Johns. In addition to her father, she is preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Beverly Bebout. Shannon had a heart of gold and was a giver in every sense of the word; always ready to help others, share a kind word, or offering a comforting hand. Her love for those around her was endless, and her spirit touched everyone she met. Above all, she was a devoted and loving mother whose care and warmth will forever live on in the hearts of her family. Though she was taken from us far too soon, her light continues to shine in the lives she touched. She is survived by her daughter, Cailyn (Anthony Gilger) Poling; sons, Landen and Logan Poling; sisters, Krystal Neff and Bonnie Johns; five brothers: Justin Johns, Allen Johns, Sean Lytle, Dakota Johns, and Darrell Johns; soon-to-be born grandchild; long-term partner, Terry Duncil; as well as many family members and friends.

A celebration of Shannon’s life will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the American Legion (1633 Cleveland Avenue NW, Canton, OH 44703). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shannon’s memory to the family to defray expenses. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

10/20/2025

Noah Andrew West, age 44 of New Philadelphia, OH passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025, following a brief illness. He was born on June 24, 1981, in Dover. He attended New Philadelphia High School and enjoyed hiking, cooking, bowling, and watching scary movies with his sister. He is preceded in death by his brother, Brent West. Noah is survived by his mother, Esther Van Fossen; sister, Kyna (Adam) Ruckman; special niece, Payton Ruckman; stepfather, Greg (Debbie) Van Fossen; and daughters, Kaitlin and Sarah West of South Carolina. A private memorial service will be held at Ridgecrest Memorial Gardens in Dover at a later date. The family would like to thank the Staff of Union Hospital for their kind and compassionate care. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

10/13/2025

Daryl D. Long, of Alliance passed away suddenly at the age of 69 on Thursday, October 9, 2025. Born on November 22, 1955, in Steubenville, Ohio, he is survived by his wife, Linda Long; and children, Jodee (Long Kessler), Michael Long, and Brittney Smith; along with 14 grandkids, and 7 great-grandkids. He was retired from American Steel. He graduated from Wellsville High School in 1974. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Daryl Ann Long. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

10/01/2025

Robert Steven Gresser, of Massillon, OH, passed away on September 10, 2025, in his hometown at the age of 78. He was born March 28, 1947, to the late Clarence and Virginia (Heckendorn) Gresser. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged.
Steve spent his life rooted in the community he loved. He was a dedicated and hardworking man who built a long and steady career. For two decades, he worked at Superior Meats where his commitment and work ethic left a lasting impression. He also worked at Roberts Express and Republic Waste over the years.
Steve had a deep appreciation for life’s vibrant spirit and the outdoors. He was an avid golfer, he could often be found on the green or playing softball on Gresser’s softball team. He loved camping and boating with family and friends. He loved visiting Florida to see his daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren. And family vacations in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and Black Lake, Michigan. Steve upheld a beloved tradition of meeting with his buddies for coffee and conversation almost every day at McDonald’s.
Steve was a member of the Sons of Herman, Massillon, and Eagles #190. You could often find him at one of the clubs socializing with his friends and talking about sports. He was a lifetime fan of the Massillon Tigers, Ohio State Buckeyes, and the Cleveland Browns.
Steve is survived by his wife, Sally Lukala. He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Stephanie (Gresser) Warner and her husband, Victor; brother, Michael Gresser; sister, Susie (Gresser) Kovatch; seven grandchildren: Blake, Cameron, Chase, and Sophia Warner, Steven and Leila Gresser, and Mason Miles; nieces, Sandra Kovatch Pruitt and her husband Jeff, and Katrinia Gresser; nephews: Denny Kovatch, Ronald Kovatch, Michael Gresser, Joe Gresser; longtime friend, Rhonda Kratz; and many more lifetime friends, great nephews and great nieces. He is preceded in death by his father, Clarence Gresser; mother, Virginia (Heckendorn) Gresser; and his beloved son, Steven “Bubby” Gresser.
The family will receive friends on October 14, 2025, at 1:45 PM at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery (10175 Rawiga Road, Seville, OH 44273) and a celebration of life will be held October 13, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Sons of Herman (1994 Deermont Avenue NW, Massillon, OH 44647). The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Sons of Herman for their generosity. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

09/17/2025

Mark Stephen Derus, age 68 of Navarre, OH passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. He was born on September 23, 1956, in Painesville, OH to the late Alphonse and Anna (Olewnick) Derus. He was a graduate of Ledgemont High School. Mark retired from Iron Workers Local 550, 17, and 3. Sensei Mark was a Sandan, third-degree blackbelt and also held a blackbelt in Ju-Jitsu. Mark was very active at Living Grace Christian Church where he loved sharing his martial arts knowledge, attending Bible studies, Bell Choir, and playing his guitar for special music. Additional passions were teaching guitar lessons, doing sound for bands, running marathons, and spending time with his grandkids and his bulldogs. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by grandson, Jackson Siddle; brother and sister-in-law, Dennis and Dian Derus; and sister, Victoria Ellis. Mark is survived by his wife of 19 years, Toni Derus; children: Alphonse (Porter) Derus, Mark (Chloe) Derus Jr., Sophia (Jeremiah) Siddle, Persephone (Matthew) Luckring, and Jeremiah (Kait) Maybaugh; grandchildren: Mia, Penelope, Waylon, Delilah, Lillyana, Mark III, Daniella, Quentin, Evelyn, Gavyn, and Finn; and siblings: Rosalie (Thomas) Toth, Ellen (Abe) Cantor, Kathleen (Louis) Berman, Alphonse Christopher (Sue) Derus, and Michael (Rose) Derus. A celebration of Mark’s life will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Living Grace Christian Church with Pastor Carl Kandel officiating. A graveside service will be held at East Union Lawn Cemetery, Navarre at 1:00 PM on the same day. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mark’s memory to the charity of your choosing. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

09/17/2025

Jeffrey L. Johnson, age 63 of Dennison, OH passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025, following a brief illness. He was born on August 9, 1962, in Dover to Harold and Lee Ellen (Stoneman) Johnson. Jeff was a 1981 graduate of Indian Hills Christian School. He worked for the last 18 years as a machinist at Denney Plastics where he loved working and spending time with owners, Deana and Dave Denney, and his coworkers. Jeff loved to fish, camp, and ride side-by-sides with family and friends. He is preceded in death by his wife, Maggie; step-father, Charlie Heath; and father, Harold. Jeff is survived by sons, Travis (Danielle) Johnson and Randy Hahn; his favorite person and grandson, Tye Johnson; mother, Lee Ellen Heath; siblings: Damon (Colleen) Johnson, Eric (Tania) Johnson, Jason Johnson, and Rachel Johnson; and many loving nieces and nephews. Per his wishes, there are no calling hours or services and his cremated remains will be scattered along with Maggie’s in some of their special places. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

08/28/2025

Dennie A. Rowland, age 53 of Hartville, OH, passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. She was born on January 22, 1972, in Akron to Dennis and Louetta (Flaker) Rowland. She was a graduate of Green High School. Dennie had a contagious laugh and a wonderful sense of humor. She will be dearly missed by many loving friends and family. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother and grandmother. Dennie will be remembered for her generosity for everyone she met. She is preceded in death by her “Dad,” Larry “Poppie” Wonn; and her grandmother, Mildred Flaker. Dennie is survived by her daughter, Bailee (David) Graber; grandson, David “Davey” Graber; mother, Louetta Wonn; and brothers, Joe Rowland and Shannon Mount. A celebration of Dennie’s life will be held at Compass North Church (2268 South Arlington Road, Akron, OH 44319) at 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

08/27/2025

Bernette Ann Fisher, age 51, of Jackson Township passed away suddenly on August 26, 2025. Born on November 11, 1973, in Canton, Ohio to Bernard and Virginia (Shrewsbury) Fisher, she touched countless lives with her warmth and compassion.

Bernette grew up in Massillon and lived in Florida for many years. Upon her return to Ohio, she worked at Rescare Waterside Group Home, where she was known for her gentle smile, dedication and ability to make residents feel at home. Her work there was cut short when she suffered a stroke in July 2013, but she remained a source of love and support for family and friends.

Those who knew Bernette remember her as someone who could always light up a room. Her warm caring nature was always present.

Preceded in death by her Mother, Virginia Fisher, Grandparents, Carl and Delilah Shrewsbury, and Aunt, Sandy Shrewsbury. She is survived by her son, Eric Carta; Sister, Brenda (Gary) Hawthorne; Life Partner, Dave Check; Dave’s mother, Theresa Check; Dave’s brother, Jim (Paulette) Martin; Dave’s sisters, Carole Sofranko, Suzanne (Todd) Diss, and Sherry Check; a host of nephews and nieces; and her cherished pets, Rudy, Honeybee and Angel.

Per her wishes, cremation will take place and a celebration of life will occur at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a Humane Society or animal rescue of your choice in her honor.

The family would like to thank the staff at Aultman Massillon ER and Aultman MICU for their compassion and care. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041.

Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home

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