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IN MEMORY OF THOSE WE LOST
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In Memory Of Those We Lost
"Go on, get out! Last words are for fools who haven't said enough!"
Karl Marx to his housekeeper, when asked if he wanted his last words recorded.
Austin Thomas Michalec
Our beloved son and big brother, Austin Thomas Michalec, 15, went home to the loving arms of Jesus on June 2, 2011.
Austin was born in Akron, on August 4, 1995, the son of Christopher R. and Diane L. (Kulasa) Michalec, big brother to Collin Matthew and Colton Christopher Michalec.
Austin grew up in Randolph and was a freshman at Waterloo High School where he played basketball and lettered as a freshman for track. He attended St. Peter of the Fields Church in Rootstown, Ohio, were he was active in the youth group. He played the part of Jesus for the youth Stations of the Cross.
Austin loved anything to do with cars and racing. That was his biggest passion. He had always hoped to open his own garage someday and be able to custom design cars for people as well as work on them. He was a very talented artist, loved listening to music and making his own music, enjoyed photography and loved making videos with his friends and brothers. He raced BMX and in 2009 was third in the state for his class of riders. Akron BMX was like a second home with ``family' that he loved spending time with. He always said he liked racing his bike until he could race his car. He loved riding his dirt bike, golf carts, go kart, four wheeler; basically anything that had a motor or wheels!
Austin was a beautiful person who deeply cared for everyone. We never met anyone who didn't have good things to say about him and the wonderful person he was. As hard it may be to believe, Austin and his brothers never fought. They disagreed at times, but we were so blessed to have boys that got along amazingly well. He was not only their big brother, but their best friend. Austin would sit and play Legos with Colton for hours in the basement. They would build villages and make up stories and laugh. Austin and Colton had several projects going on of building and painting some bikes and Green Machines. He liked to show off his car to Colton and explain what he was working on at the time. Austin and Collin would spend many hours in the back yard together, riding four wheelers, going for canoe rides, making ``Bridges to Terabithia' and getting wet and muddy. They had plans for making a fort in the back yard this summer. They loved playing video games together and always enjoyed each others company. They were truly as close as anyone could be. Austin also loved spending time with his sweet girlfriend, Mariah. Seeing those two together would bring a smile to anyone's face. They enjoyed sitting at home watching movies, listening to music, going out to the barn to work on his car, and going on go kart rides in the back.
Austin will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We know that we will all be together again someday in heaven. ``I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies.' John 11:25
Austin is survived by his parents, Christopher and Diane Michalec; brothers, Collin and Colton; grandparents, William and Rosemary Kulasa, and Diane Michalec; great-grandmothers, Carol Kulasa and Regina Savick; uncles, David Kulasa, James Kulasa, Michael (Debra) Michalec, Gregory Michalec, Steven (Jessica) Michalec; cousins, Jennifer, Julie and Gavin Michalec; girlfriend, Mariah Simpson; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, John Michalec and uncle, Matthew Michalec.
Calling hours TODAY , 3 to 7 p.m. at St. Peter of the Fields Catholic Church, 3487 Old Forge Rd., Rootstown, OH 44272, where Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of other remembrances, donations should be made to the Austin T. Michalec memorial fund to be used for various charities c/o 810 Portage Tr. Cuyahoga Falls Oh. 44221.
Please view Austin's website at: caringbridge.org/visit/austinmichalec
John W. Michalec
He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Matthew; brother, Michael; and his parents, John and Jean Michalec. He is survived by his loving wife, Diane of 44 years; his sons, Michael (Debra) of Randolph, Christopher (Diane) of Randolph, Gregory of Oakland, Calif., and Steven (Jessica) of Akron; brothers, Jim (Frances) of Pickerington and Jerry of Akron; and sisters, Janice (Will) of Virginia Beach and Joyce of Cuyahoga Falls. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jennifer, Austin, Collin, Julie, Colton, and Gavin Michalec.
John graduated from the Goodyear apprentice program before earning a BS from the University of Akron in 1975. He was a journeyman electrician who was employed at Goodyear and as an electrical engineer for Motor Wheel/Hayes Lemmerz, where he retired in 2002. John was active in the Mogadore Jaycees, Mogadore Merry Makers, and was a Eucharistic Minister and Vacation Bible School volunteer at Saint Matthew Church in Akron. For over 30 years he had been involved in scouting. He volunteered as an Indian Guide leader, Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, and most recently served as Advancement & Recognition Chairman for the Tri-Fires district.
John believed in living life to the fullest. He found much joy in his family, especially his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He enthusiastically attended anything that they were involved in, and any time he could spend with them was special. He coordinated all the family reunions. John was an avid fisherman who owned more lures than anyone in the world. He was one of Mogadore's greatest football fans, and could always be spotted sporting Wildcat apparel on his morning walks. He enjoyed going on many vacations with his family and friends. He loved his popcorn!
Calling hours will be held Thursday from 1 to 3 and 5:30 to 8:30 at St. Matthew's Catholic Church (2580 Berne St.). Family will gather Friday at Ciriello & Carr Funeral Home (810 Portage Tr. Cuyahoga Falls, 44221) at 10 a.m. for the funeral procession. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. at Saint Matthew Church in Akron. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery, Akron. In lieu of flowers, please send gifts to: Boy Scouts of America c/o Ciriello and Carr.
"Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Matthew 25:21)
John W. Michalec, 66, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, September 14, 2009.
Douglas L. Swires, age 80, of West Hickory, Pa., formerly of Akron, Ohio, died on Friday, March 13, 2009 at the UPMC Northwest Hospital, Seneca, Pa. due to a traffic crash.
Doug's favorite quote was "I don't know how the rich people are doing but us poor folk are doing mighty fine". Doug was born March 22, 1928 in Kenmore, Ohio, son of the late Clarence W. and Edith (Bailey) Swires.
He was career military, serving in the U.S. Navy during both World War II and the Korean Wars. Doug was Past Commander of the Cliff Hockley VFW Post and Past Commander of the American Legion, both of Akron, Ohio.
Surviving are three sons, Jerry Swires, of Washington state, Gary Hagen and his wife Mona of Akron, Michael Hagen and his wife Caroljean of Asheville, N.C.; three daughters, Charlene Swires of Alabama, Becki Mullen of Akron, Marie Rizzo and her husband Vince, also of Akron; three daughters-in-law, Becky Hagen and Debbie Hagen both of Akron and Alta Hagen of Clinton, Ohio. PaPa Doug also leaves behind many grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by wife, Jean Hagen and companion Sandy McChesney; sister, Dolores Swires; three sons, Richard, James and Mark Hagen.
There will be no pubic visitation, all services held will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to charity of one's choice. Arrangements are under the direction of the Norman J. Wimer Funeral Home of Tionesta, Pa. Condolences may be sent by email to the family at doug@skedge.com or the family web site at www.skedge.com
Mark A. Hagen, 48, passed away July 27, 2008.
He was born October 27, 1959 in Akron. He worked as a foreman in the Grounds Services Department for Akron Public Schools for 30 years, was a current reserve officer for the Akron Police Department, and a former reserve deputy for the Summit County Sheriff's Department for ten years.
Mark was a member of Valley Community Church, American Legion Firestone Memorial Post 449, and the First Hungarian Benefit Society. He loved people and "never met a stranger." He was always lending a helping hand to whoever needed it. Mark especially enjoyed riding his motorcycle and making people laugh.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Garfield and Jean Hagen; and brothers, Rick and James Hagen. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 18 years, Alta; sons, Andrew Hagen and Matthew Mervine; one granddaughter; twin sister, Marie (Vince) Rizzo and sister, Becki Mullen; brothers, Gary (Mona) Hagen and Michael (Caroljean) Hagen; sisters-in-law, Debbie Hagen and Becky Hagen; step-father, Doug Swires; uncle, Bill Hagen; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.
Friends may call at the Bacher Funeral Home, 3326 Manchester Rd. on Wednesday, July 30 from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m., with services following at 7 p.m., Pastor Mark Archer officiating. Donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice, in memory of Mark. Funeral home map, directions, and the Hagen Family condolence book are available at www.bacherfuneralhome.com.(Bacher, 330-644-0024)
James A.O. Hagen, 51, went home to be with the Lord, Wednesday, July 16, 2008.
A life resident of the Akron area, he was very active in Community of Christ Church and also Street Ministries with Rev. Linda Moran.
Preceded in death by parents, Garfield L. and Jean E. Hagen; brother, Richard A. "Rick" Hagen; survived by wife, Deborah; children, Billy Joe, Christina, Andrew, Jamie; stepchildren, Amber and Dale; several grandchildren; sisters and brothers, Becki Mullen, Gary (Mona), Mike (C.J.), Mark (Alta), Marie (Vince) Rizzo; sister-in-law, Becky Hagen; stepfather, Doug Swires; uncle, Bill Hagen; nieces, nephews and many other family and friends.
A memorial service will be held Saturday 11:30 a.m. at Community of Christ Church, 834 Grant Street, Akron 44311 with Rev. Patrick Barrett officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Richard A. "Rick'' Hagen, 51, died Feb. 14, 2005, at the Cleveland Clinic. Born in Akron, he was a life resident. He enjoyed playing pool and cards, and was well known by his family and friends as a person who would do anything for them. He retired from the City of Akron, Communications Department.
Preceded in death by his parents, Garfield L. and Jean E. Hagen, he is survived by his wife, Rebecca "Becky'' Hagen; children, Ashley "Boo,'' Chris and Meghan; grandson, Lennon; sisters and brothers, Becki Mullen, Gary (Mona), Jimmy, Mike (C.J.), Mark (Alta), and Marie (Vince) Rizzo; stepfather, Doug Swires; uncle, Bill Hagen; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Lucille and Ova Casto; sisters-in-law, Linda (Mike) and Cindy (Tim); nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and close friends.
A memorial mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. SATURDAY at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St., Akron 44301. Friends may call at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., FRIDAY, 4 to 8 p.m.
Jean E. Michalec
Jean E. Michalec, 78, died Jan. 10, 2001. Born in Duluth, Minn., she lived all her life in Akron. She was a member of Christ the King Church.
Preceded in death by husband, John Frank Michalec, and grandson, Matthew J. Michalec, she is survived by sons, John W. (Diane) Michalec of Mogadore, James R. (Frances) Michalec of Columbus, Ohio, Jerry E. Michalec of Akron; daughters, Janice M. (Will) Weber of Virginia Beach, Va., Joyce D. Michalec of Akron; eight grandsons, one granddaughter, four great-grandchildren; and half-brother, Bill L. Hagen of Portage Lakes.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. SATURDAY at Christ the King Church, 1584 Creighton Ave., Akron 44310. Procession will form at the church. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends may call at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel TODAY, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Should friends desire, memorials may be made to C.Y.O. and Community Services Adult Day Care Center, 812 Biruta St., Akron 44307-1104. (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 330-867-4141.)
Jean E. Hagen
Jean E. Hagen, 67, died after a lengthy illness, on Nov. 8, 1998. She was past president of V.F.W. Women's Auxiliary of Mains Post 1070 and Cliff Hockley Post 3532; past president of Summit County Council and District 8 Auxiliary; a life member of Firestone Post 3383, and a member of America Legion Post 449. Jean was a retired legal secretary, working in various law firms.
Preceded in death by husband, Garfield L. Hagen, she is survived by loving companion, Doug Swires; children, Rebecca Mullen, Gary and Mona Hagen, Richard and Rebecca Hagen, James A. Hagen, Michael and Rita Hagen, Mark and Alta Hagen, and Marie and Vince Rizzo; grandchildren, Timothy, Jody, Jennifer, Dan, Samuel, Seema, Chris, Meghan, Ashley, Bill, Christy, Andrew, James, Jennifer, Michael, Andrew, Matthew, and Lauren; six great grandchildren; and her companion's children, Charlene Gallant and Jerry Swires.
A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. TODAY at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., with Rev. John Snyder officiating. Should friends desire, memorials may be made to V.F.W. Women's Auxiliary, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, or the American Lung Association. (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 867-4141.)
Garfield `Newt' Hagen
Garfield `Newt' Hagen, 61, died Thursday, Oct. 15, 1987 after an extended illness. Mr. Hagen was an Akron native, and retiree of the City of Akron Highway Department, where he served as foreman. He was a member of Ohio Operating Engineers Local 18, the Castel DiSangro, VFW 1070, and he was a volunteer at the Akron General Medical Center. During World War II, he had served in the Navy.
He is survived by wife, Jean E.; daughters and son-in-law, Becki Mullen, Marie and Vince Rizzo; sons and daughters-in-law, Gary and Mona, Rick and Becky, Jim, Mike, and Mark; sisters, Jean Michalec, Helyne (and Joe) Victor; brother, William (and Janet); nine grandchildren, all of Akron; and beloved friend Carolyn Greene.
Calling hours will be from 4 to 9 on Sunday, at the Dunn-Quigley-Ciriello & Carr Funeral Home, 811 Grant St. Mass of Christian Burial 10 a.m. Monday from St. Paul's Catholic Church. Memorials may be made to the American Heart or Cancer Associations. (Dunn-Quigley-Ciriello & Carr, Akron Grant St., 253-8121.)
Myrtle M. Phelps
Myrtle M. Phelps, 92, of Akron, died March 20, 1987.
She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Jean E. and Garfield Hagen of Akron; grandchildren, Gary and Mona Hagen, Richard and Becky Hagen, Marie and Vince Rizzo, James Hagen, Michael Hagen, Mark Hagen and Becki Mullen; eight great-grandchildren.
Visitation from 5 to 9 TONIGHT at Schlup-Pucak Funeral Chapel, Kenmore Boulevard at Eighth Street. Funeral services 11 a.m. Tuesday, at the Margaret Park Presbyterian Church, 732 Russell Ave., with Rev. Harold Walker officiating. Interment Greenlawn Memorial Park. Eastern Star services at 7:30 THIS EVENING. Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Margaret Park Presbyterian Church; or Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Cancer Fund. (Schlup-Pucak, 745-3131.