Prentice Funeral Home

Apple Creek-
Alona Jane Beyler, 92, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at Lifecare Hospice of Wooster. She was born December 29th, 1933, in Orrville, the daughter of Clyde and Mabel (George) Miller. After graduating from Orrville High School, she married the love of her life James Beyler on June 1, 1953. Alona was a waitress and worked at K-Mart while raising 6 children. She was a loving Mother who enjoyed cooking wild game, baking, puzzles, she was a great decorator and enjoyed family vacations on Rice Lake in Canada. The Kentucky Derby was a great joy to her and her husband, whom she loved dearly.

She is survived by children, Vanessa Beyler of Shelby, Vicky (Dave) Maisano of Akron, Audrey (Brent) Keller of Wooster, Vonnie Beyler of Dalton, and James Dale Jr. (Tammy) Beyler of Sterling; grandchildren, Jenny (Wes) Miller, Adam (Heather) Bracken, Ami (Kevin) Stairs, Bethany (John) Barker, Allison Keller, Bradley (Brenda) Keller, Jarrod (Kayla) Beyler, Breanna (Cody) Busson; a sister Monetta Miller and 13 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers, 2 sisters and son James “Binny” Beyler. Donations may be made to Lifecare Hospice of Wooster or American Legion Post #718 of Marshallville.

Cremation has taken place and she will be placed in the wall with her beloved husband at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 2:15 p.m. Please meet at the front office at 2:00 p.m.

Thomas “Tom” Painter was many things throughout his life—a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, sports fanatic, musician, movie buff, and devoted fan—but above all else, he was uniquely one of one.
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Tom was the son of Ralph and Dolores Painter and grew up alongside his sister Darla and brothers Bruce, Jay, and Keith. The toughness, loyalty, work ethic, and sense of humor that would define him throughout his life were forged early and never left him.
Tom loved sports, both playing and watching them. He believed games should be played the right way and wasn’t shy about letting others know when they weren’t. He was an accomplished golfer who spent countless hours on the course and was proud of recording two holes-in-one during his lifetime. Those who golfed with him also knew he never missed an opportunity to offer advice before a shot, often warning, “Don’t hit it in the water over there,” or “Don’t hit it in the hazard.” He was also a passionate fan of the Steelers, Guardians, Cavaliers, and Buckeyes, sticking with them through good seasons and bad.
Tom enjoyed good food and had a few favorite spots he returned to often, including Hartville Kitchen, Hopocan Gardens, Chinese buffets, and the original Angie’s before it changed.
He loved pistachios, and a bag opened around Tom usually didn’t last very long. He also loved Dove Dark Chocolates, and he especially loved ice cream. He had what we call the famous Painter sweet tooth.
He loved movies, especially science fiction and fantasy. Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings were favorites, but he enjoyed everything from Tom Cruise action movies to old Jackie Chan martial arts films. His favorite movie, however, was Field of Dreams. His sense of humor was equally broad. He loved Benny Hill, Mel Brooks, The Three Stooges, In Living Color, Ali G, The Naked Gun, Hot Shots, The Jerk, Tommy Boy, and just about anything that could make him laugh until tears rolled down his face.
Music was another lifelong passion. Tom played guitar and loved bands such as Yes, Rush, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Neil Young, and Dream Theater. Yet somehow, the same man could also enjoy Taylor Swift, Kesha, Ed Sheeran, One Direction, and the Black Eyed Peas without the slightest concern for what anyone thought about it.
Tom spent many years working for Reiter Dairy, where coworkers affectionately nicknamed him “Homer” after the Simpsons character. He worked hard in the cooler loading milk onto trucks, and took pride in doing his job well as a lifelong Teamster.
He was also an early and lifelong video game enthusiast. Long before gaming became mainstream, Tom was lining up to buy the newest system. From Nintendo to 3DO, PlayStation, Xbox, Halo, Call of Duty, RPGs, and everything in between, he loved gaming and rarely missed a chance to try the latest release.
Those closest to Tom knew he appreciated order. Shoes were lined up perfectly. Things belonged where they belonged. He liked routine, structure, and being on time. In fact, being late simply wasn’t something Tom did.
One of Tom’s greatest joys was being a grandfather to Ava and Drew Painter. He loved them immensely and was incredibly proud of them. He also took his role as a baseball grandpa very seriously and cherished every opportunity to cheer them on and support them.
More than anything, Tom loved his family. He shared a close and loving life with his wife Joan and son Andrew. They remained a tight-knit family throughout his life.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Dolores Painter; his brother, Bruce Painter; his daughter, Megan Painter; and his niece, Tiffany.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joan Painter; son Andrew (Holley) Painter; grandchildren Ava and Drew Painter; sister Darla (Jeff) Jenkins; brothers Jay (Val) Painter and Keith Painter; nieces and nephews Pam, Stephanie (Steve), Kristel (Matt), Doug, Danny (Suzanne), Billy (Aubrey), and Todd (Cecilia), along with numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Tom Painter was tough, stubborn, funny, loyal, and unforgettable. He loved deeply, laughed loudly, argued passionately, rooted hard for his teams, and never hesitated to share his thoughts. The world is a little quieter without him, but anyone who knew Tom can probably still hear his voice offering advice from the sidelines or around the golf course.
A true 1 of 1 who will be missed forever
Funeral services will be held at the Prentice Funeral Home, 1154 Kenmore Blvd. on Sunday June 7th at 4:00 p.m., officiated by Matt Stone. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park on Monday, June 8th at 11:00 a.m.

Randy M. Nicholson, 71 passed away on May 2, 2026. He was a quiet man who would do anything for anyone. He loved his truck, driving, Nascar, going to the beach, being in his pool and his doxies. He was a long-time member of Park United Methodist Church.
Randy is preceded by his mother Frances Nicholson and brother-in-law Paul Gregory. He will be dearly missed by his wife of 38 years Phyllis Nicholson, son Collin Nicholson, daughter Skylar Nicholson, grandson Jayce, father John Nicholson, sister Debby Gregory, sister-in-law & brother-in-law Cathy and Ken Shillingburg and many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Park United Methodist Church, 2308 24th St. SW, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Pastor Dave Haydu. Friends may call from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Donations if desired may be made to Park United Methodist Church Memorial Fund and would be appreciated.

Effie R. Tichon, 92 of Kenmore passed away on April 30, 2026. She was born in Alabama, grew up there, then her family moved to Norton where she graduated from Norton High School. She married John in 1953, and they were married for 69 years before he passed away in 2023. She was a receptionist for Millcraft Paper and a travel agent for Rolling Acres Travel, which enabled them to take many trips together. She loved to read, paint and garden. She loved her flowers.
Effie is preceded by her husband John Tichon, daughter Mary Ann Tichon, brother Jim and sisters Kathryn, Ruby and Linda. She is survived by her daughter Margaret Brown, son John (Denise) Tichon, 9 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-granddaughter, sister Elaine Edmonson and lots of nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be at the Prentice Funeral Home, 1154 Kenmore Blvd. Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Private entombment will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park on Thursday.

Christian Alexander Marong December 2, 2025-April 20,2026

Christian Alexander Marong was born December 2, 2025, to his loving mother, Kelli Marong, at Akron General Hospital in Akron, Ohio.

At four and a half months old, Christian was perfection, with the squishiest cheeks. He loved a good bottle of “milkies” and treasured being held close. In those early months, he made it clear that he belonged in someone’s arms. His favorite place was nestled on his mom’s chest, where he was most peaceful and content.

By his fourth month, Christian’s personality began to shine. He had the sweetest, melt-your-heart smile and a deep belly giggle that brought joy to everyone around him. He would chime into conversations with perfectly timed giggles and grunts, affectionately earning him the nicknames “Snort” and “Buttercup.” He loved being sung to — especially songs from The Lion King. Aladdin and newly introduced Tarzan—and found delight in books, small toys, and anything that made a gentle sound.

Christian especially drawn to faces. He was fascinated with his image in the mirror and would gaze and listen intently to those he loved. In his most recent weeks, he began to snuggle in closer— pressing his face into your neck when he was held, as if returning the gestures that were bestowed on him.

He was deeply loved by his mother, Kelli. In addition, many others were blessed to snuggle and care for him, including Lauren Fuller, Doug and Karen Fuller, and many friends who treasured him and dreamed of getting to love on him forever.

Those who knew Christian will remember not only his smiles, but the quiet, sacred moments in between—the tiny grip of his fingers, or the way he would hold onto your hand and draw it close to his chest even as he slept.

Though his life was brief, it was filled with tenderness, and deep love. His presence brought a joy and softness that will not be forgotten and is already so deeply missed.

Sweetest boy you will always be remembered for the love you gave and the love you received. We long for the day we hear you giggle again and can snuggle you in close. Until that day comes may you be held by Jesus and wrapped in a love you can feel. We love you buddy.

A private celebration of life service will be held on April 30th at 12:00 pm in Portage County.

“you'll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more”

Junior Loughrie


On April 11, 2026, Junior C. Loughrie, 73, of Kenmore lost a yearlong battle with Hepatocellular Liver Cancer. His wife Cynthia, son Timothy and his Annie by his side.
Born in Grafton, West Virginia to John and Karminettia Loughrie on September 7, 1952. He moved to Akron very early in his childhood, returning often to West Virginia to visit the "homeplace" and his extended family. Junior always dreamed of moving to West Virginia after his retirement. He was very close to fulfilling that dream when God decided to call him home.
Junior was a member of the Kenmore High School Class of 1971 until he left early to voluntarily enlist in the Army during the Vietnam War. (1971 - 1972) Junior originally enlisted to become a mechanic but after being shown a movie or two he decided he wanted to become a helicopter "Door Gunner". On November 7, 1971, he was awarded "The Air Medal With "V" Device" for heroism during a visual reconnaissance mission in the Quag Tri Provence, Republic of Vietnam. When an accompanying scout aircraft was downed by enemy fire, Junior was able to deliver accurate devastating fire until the downed crew was aboard his aircraft, and all were able to get to safety. After returning home he attended Akron Evening High School at North High School. Graduating in 1975. Like many other Vietnam Veterans, Junior did not know that eventually he would fight the biggest battle of his life called Agent Orange. Which not only left him with debilitating neuropathy, but also with liver cancer.
In 1981 Junior became employed at B&C Machine where he continued to work for 33 years. Retiring in 2014. Starting out as a machine operator and working up to leadman/set up. While at B&C Junior built long time friendships with Bill, Bob, Mikey and Ron. Enjoying many breakfasts and poker parties with the guys.
Junior was a jack of all trades. He could honestly fix just about anything. His motto ... He was never going to pay someone to do something he could do for himself. He was an outdoor type of fellow. Junior enjoyed vegetable gardening, yard work, fishing, hunting and he especially loved feeding his outdoor critters ... Birds, groundhogs, possums, raccoons, skunks, squirrels and sometimes a deer of two if he was in WV.
Junior was a very patriotic man who had much love for his God and Country. He was a born again Christian and a member of Park United Methodist Church.
Junior was preceded in death by his parents John and Karminettia and son Junior Allen. He is survived by his wife Cynthia of 46 years. Renewing their original vows from 1979 on their 45th Anniversary in 2024. Children Timothy, Wendy, Laura & Jennifer, 14 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Brothers in Law Floyd and Scott Baker. Many cousins and extended family and his loyal cat Mama who stayed by his side throughout his illness, some days never leaving his bedside.
Many thanks to Gentiva Home Hospice and Summa Barberton Hospital. To Pastor David Haydu, to the many Prayer Warriers at Park United Methodist Church and to our extended family and friends who have prayed and given Junior and I so much support during our time of need.
Junior's corneas have been donated to Lifebanc so that two people will be given the gift of sight.
Per Junior's wishes a private grave side service has taken place at Copley Cemetery, Copley, Ohio.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Margie Koegel, 78, of Akron passed away peacefully Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at The Village of St. Edward.

Margie was born on November 10, 1947 in Akron, Ohio, the daughter of James and Geraldine (Petrasek) Truxell. She graduated from Garfield High School in 1965 and attended Riggs Lemar Beauty College. She worked as a beautician at Andre Duval until she opened her own beauty salon, A Cut in Time in Akron. Margie loved her work and making her customers feel beautiful. She retired as an independent contractor at Shear TLC in 2019.

Margie leaves a daughter, Michelle (Ryan) Porter, and son, Sean Koegel of Akron, three grandchildren, Alexis (Devan) Benjamin, Jane and Ian, great-grandson, Deacon, and nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Margie is preceded in death by her sister Joyce (Fred) Hollendoner of Canfield.

Family will receive friends on Monday, February 23, 2026 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. with service to follow at 6:30 p.m. at Prentice Funeral Home, 1154 Kenmore Blvd. Akron, Ohio 44314. Rose Kienzle, Traditions Health Chaplain will officiate.

Nancy F. Collins, 78, passed away unexpectedly February 9, 2026. Nancy was born on April 12, 1947 in Akron, OH and spent over 30 years in service to students in the Akron Public Schools. She loved reading, traveling, and especially spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to those around her, consistently seeking to help and support others in every way possible.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Vito and Roberta DeAngelis, her brother Thomas, and sister Linda.
She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother as well as an incredible friend to many. She is survived by her loving husband of over 57 years, Bill; children Kathy and Jeff (Erin); grandchildren Jack (Sophie), Joseph, Caitlin, Reilly, and Kendall; great-grandchildren Oliver and Peter; and a large extended family.

Per her wishes, there will be no funeral or calling hours.
Nancy’s warmth, kindness, and devotion to family and friends will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

Janis Henderson, 73 of Akron, passed away on January 18, 2026. She was the only daughter in a family of five children. She grew up in the Barberton area where her parents owned and operated Terrace Gardens ,a long-time staple in Barberton, serving fried chicken. After Terrace Gardens sold, she became a C & C machine operator and retired from Manchester tool machine company after 20 years of service. She raised her two boys by herself and was very proud of both of them. She was a huge dog lover, liked to shop, had lots of friends and was very close to her nieces and nephews.

Janis is preceded by her parents James and Eileen Johnson, her son Jason Roy Henderson and her four brothers James, Gary, Ron and Ken Johnson. She is survived by her son Daniel Isaah Henderson, grandchildren Kamaile Jason Henderson, Maya Henderson, Anna Henderson and Danielle Henderson, great-grandson Lucious Ulysses Henderson and many nieces and nephews.

Her family is planning a Celebration of Life at a later date.