C H E ST E R L A N D N EWS Chesterland News
Chesterland Marks 225 Years Since Founding with Community Celebration
Free Program Set for April 23 at Library
Staff RepoRt
Chester Township will commemorate the 225th anniversary of its founding this April with a community celebration honoring Revolutionary War veteran Justice Miner, whose arrival in 1801 marked the beginning of the settlement.
Chester Township Trustees recently recognized the milestone with an official proclamation honoring Justice Miner and his wife, Mabel Plumb Miner, for establishing the community’s first homestead.
To mark the occasion, the Chester Grave Hunters and community partners will host a free public
program April 23 at 6:30 p.m. at Geauga West Library. The event is part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration, which highlights local connections to the nation’s founding.
Organizers said Chesterland’s history is uniquely tied to the Revolutionary War through Miner, who served under Gen. George Washington. His journey from military service to frontier settler reflects the broader American story of expansion and community building.
The program will feature a living history presentation in which Justice Miner will be portrayed sharing his experiences, from serving at West Point to clearing land at what is now the southwest cor-
Softball Looks to Build Off District Title
By CameRon palmeR SpoRtS@kaRloveCmedia Com
West Geauga claimed its first-ever district championship in the fastpitch era of high school softball last season, and they enter 2026 with seven returning starters and 10 returners with varsity letters from last season.
That mix of postseason experience and team experience is the backbone for the Wolverines this year.
“It’s a double-edged sword,” said West Geauga head coach Mark
ner of Heath and Mayfield roads. A portrayal of Washington also is planned, including the presentation of the township’s proclamation and remarks on early American life.
Miner was a fifth-generation descendant of Thomas Minor of Stonington, Conn. His extended family lineage includes several nota ble Americans, includ ing President Ulysses S. Grant, Vice President Charles Fairbanks and actors Don Knotts, Eva Marie Saint, Chevy Chase, the Baldwin brothers, Rainn Wilson and Timothy Hutton.
Revolutionary War patriots buried in Chesterland’s three historic cemeteries.
Organizers said the celebration is designed for all ages and will include interactive storytelling, photo opportunities with historical figures and a birthday cake marking the township’s 225th anniversary.
In addition to the historical program, the event will recognize
Percassi. “First of all, it was awesome. I think the girls had a ton of fun as we kept progressing. Obviously, you feel good about being there, but then they also realize that it's a brand new year, right? The record is 0-0. We've done noth ing this year; today's a new day.”
With most of last year’s team returning to the diamond and hav ing been involved in some form of sports since then, there’s certainly reason to believe.
“There’s a good faction of these girls that play summer ball, travel,
“This anniversary gives us a rare opportunity to connect with the people and events that built the community we call home,” organizers said in a statement. “Justice Miner’s story is not only Chesterland’s story — it’s an American story.”
Wolverines Reach For New Heights in 2026
By CameRon palmeR SpoRtS@kaRlovemedia Com
Last year ended well for the West Geauga baseball team, which won its first playoff game in a Sectional Final since 2012 and nearly won its first CVC title since 2007. With those goals being well within reach, the Wolverines are aiming to take the next step.
West Geauga Coach Brett Munn said the team had three goals: Win the Chagrin Valley Conference, reach a District finals and win 15 games.
With the idea of a conference championship in mind, plus an opportunity to play for a District Title, the Wolverines will have a great postseason-prep when they face Perry and Hawken, two constant CVC and playoff threats in their last two series of the year.
That will make for the perfect playoff primer.
“It’s good because their top arms that we're gonna see are going to be similar to whatever tournament arms we see,” Coach Munn said. “So then it gets you ready for tour-
See Baseball • Page 6
Fink
Vidovic Remaley
Atwara Percassi Borz
Town Crier
Geauga Home and Garden Show
March 27 and 28
The 19th annual Geauga Home and Garden Show will be held Friday from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Heritage Marketplace, 15848 Nauvoo Road, and Fisher Flooring, 16286 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield.
More than 120 vendors will offer home improvement services, landscaping, furniture, décor and outdoor products, with many featuring show-only pricing.
Admission is $10; children under 18 are free. The event also includes giveaways, silent auctions, vendor demonstrations and a children’s archery shoot hosted by Cabela’s.
For information, visit theheritagemarketplace.com or call 440-632-0174.
Food Pantry Open
March 27, 10 a.m. to noon
The food pantry at the Chester Christian Center church is open to anyone in the community in need of food. One does not need to be a member of the church to attend.
The church is located at 11815 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township
Free Community Dinner
March 27, 5–6:30 p.m.
Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting its free community dinner at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township.
The menu will feature corned beef and colcannon. The evening also will include a special performance by students from Chesterland’s Egan Irish Dance School. All are welcome.
Gardening 101
March 28, 10 a.m. to noon
Geauga County Master Gardener Volunteers’ free Gardening 101 series part two continues with “Seed Selection and Planting Plan” in the Patterson Center at the Geauga County Extension Office, 14269 Claridon-Troy Road, Burton.
Registration is required; call 440-8344656. For more information, visit geauga. osu.edu.
GOP Candidates Night
March 30, 6-8:30 p.m.
Geauga County Republican Party is hosting a meet and greet for candidates running in the May 5, 2026, primary election in the small gym at the Metzenbaum Center, 8200 Cedar Road in Chester Township. All are welcome. Refreshments will be provided.
For more information, contact Joan Windnagel, GOP chairman, at 440-339-6894.
Community Forum
March 31, 6 p.m.
Residents are invited to learn about sur-
vey results from the Chester Township Land Use Plan at a community forum at Mayfield United Methodist Church, 7747 Mayfield Road. Visit www.chestertwp.com for information.
West Geauga Kiwanis Meetings
Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m.
West Geauga Kiwanis meets every Tuesday at the Chesterland Baptist Church, 12670 Chillicothe Road. Join for a free dinner and learn how Kiwanis serves local students and the community. Learn more at wgkiwanis. org.
Indoor Easter Egg Dash
April 3, 6-6:30 p.m.
Children are invited to a fast-paced indoor Easter egg dash at Chester Christian Center, 11815 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. The event will feature eggs, treats and Easter fun.
For information, visit chesterchristiancenter.com or call 440-729-6203.
Chester Grave Hunters Meet
April 6, 7 p.m.
The Chester Grave Hunters will meet at the Geauga West Library. The meeting will begin with a discussion, “Grave Matters: Caring for Your Family Headstones,” offering guidance on what to look for and how to approach it with confidence. The group also will discuss plans for Chesterland’s 225th anniversary. All are welcome.
Boy Scout Spaghetti Dinner
April 11, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
All are welcome to the 27th annual Boy Scout Troop 195 all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner and bake sale held at the Chesterland Baptist Church, 12670 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.
Tickets will be available at the door for $14 adults, $8 children ages 4 to 11, and free for ages 3 and under. Dine in or drive-through. All proceeds support Scouts attending summer camp and high-adventure programs.
Polka & Pretzels
April 11, 6-8 p.m.
Mayfield Church’s MUMS (Mayfield United Methodist Stars) Special Needs Ministry is throwing a Polka and Pretzels community celebration at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township.
Enjoy live music from the Chardon Polka Band and homemade Amish hot pretzels served warm right out of the oven.
No RSVP is needed. The event is open to the public.
Author to Present Ohio History
April 12, 2 p.m.
The Chesterland Historical Foundation See Town Crier • Page 3
Geauga County to Host Free Cybersecurity Awareness Seminar March 30
Staff RepoRt
Geauga County Auditor Charles E. Walder is inviting residents and local business owners to attend a free Cybersecurity Awareness Seminar on March 30 aimed at helping participants better protect themselves in today’s digital landscape.
The seminar will take place from 6:307:45 p.m. in Room A334 of the Geauga County Office Building, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Munson Township, and is open to the public.
“We in government serve the people,” Walder said. “This session is designed to provide Geauga County residents and businesses with practical, easy-to-understand
Town Crier
from page 2
and the Cleveland and Eastern Interurban Museum will host Dr. Dan Rager for an open house at the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads in Chester Township.
Rager will present his new book, “Ohio: Gateway to America (1776-2026),” exploring 250 years of Ohio transportation history, from Indian trails and canals to railroads, automobiles and modern roadways. The program will feature photos, maps and insights into how transportation shaped the state’s development.
guidance on staying safe online.”
Attendees will hear from local experts on how to safeguard personal and business data, recognize cyber threats and take proactive steps to prevent attacks.
Featured speakers include Geauga County Commissioner Jim Dvorak, Geauga County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Jim Jonovich, Prosecutor’s Office Investigator Rick Warner and ADP Director of Cybersecurity Zach McLeod.
The seminar will cover real-world strategies to help protect families, finances and business operations from increasingly sophisticated cyber risks.
For more information, contact Kate Jacob at kjacob@gcauditor.com
Spring Tree Sale
April 16 and 17
Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is holding its spring tree sale. The sale offers a streamlined selection of both bareroot seedlings and 1-3 gallon container trees and shrubs. Rain barrels are also available.
For more information, tree descriptions and to place orders, visit geaugaswcd.com.
Order deadline is March 30. Orders are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The pickup dates are April 16, from 4-8 p.m., and April 17, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Geauga County Fairgrounds. Questions? Call 440-834-1122.
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Circulation
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Electolite Lights the Way with Decades of Trusted Service
By John kaRloveC John@kaRloveCmedia Com
For more than three decades, Electolite has quietly built a reputation as one of Northeast Ohio’s most reliable lighting service providers. Based in Chesterland, the locally owned company has become a trusted resource for homeowners and businesses seeking quality lighting solutions paired with dependable, personal service.
ty lighting, and energy-efficient upgrades that deliver long-term value.
Customers say the experience is straightforward and reassuring.
“From the first call to the final walkthrough, Electolite was professional, responsive and easy to work with,” one customer said. “They explained everything clearly and delivered exactly what they promised.”
Much of Electolite’s business comes from repeat clients and referrals, a reflection of the trust the company has built throughout Geauga County and surrounding areas.
“We’ve used Electolite for years, and
Founded in 1989, Electolite operates under a guiding philosophy reflected in its longtime motto: “Lite For Life — illumination beyond expectation.” of itself.”
“From the beginning, our goal has always been simple — do quality work, treat people fairly and stand behind what we install. If you do those things consistently, the business takes care of itself.”
Electolite specializes in lighting installation, repair and maintenance for both residential and commercial customers. The company works on interior and exterior lighting systems designed to improve safety, efficiency and overall appearance. Projects often include fixture installation, outdoor and securi-
end of the day it’s still about people,” he said. “Homeowners and business owners want someone they can trust in their space, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
In residential settings, Electolite helps homeowners modernize outdated lighting, enhance renovations and improve outdoor visibility and curb appeal. Thoughtful lighting design, Covert notes, can dramatically
– Tim "Sparky" Covert
change how a space feels without requiring major construction.
“The new lighting completely changed how our home feels,” a residential customer said. “It’s brighter, more inviting and much more functional than before. We wish we had done it sooner.”
Commercial clients rely on Electolite for efficient service that keeps properties functional and well-lit while minimizing disruptions. From small businesses to larger facilities, the company focuses on practical solutions that make sense operationally and financially.
“Electolite understood our business needs and worked around our schedule,” a commercial client said. “The upgrades were efficient, well-planned and caused minimal disruption to our operations.”
tolite has kept pace, regularly working with LED systems and energy-efficient solutions that offer improved performance and longevity.
While technology continues to change, Covert believes experience remains just as important.
“Lighting technology has changed a lot since we started,” said Covert. “We stay current so we can offer modern solutions, but experience still matters when it comes to doing the job right.”
More than 35 years after opening its doors, Electolite continues to serve Northeast Ohio with a steady focus on quality, service and community connection — proving that consistency and craftsmanship remain timeless.
WG Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast
March 29, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Kiwanis Club of West Geauga will host its 73rd annual pancake breakfast in the cafeteria at West Geauga High School, 13401 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. The menu features all-you-can-eat blueberry, buttermilk, chocolate chip and buckwheat cakes, along with French toast and beverages. Cost is $12 for adults, $7 for children 6-11 and free for children under 6. An early bird special will be offered from 8-9 a.m.
Volunteers are needed to fill in for students on spring break.
For more information, call 440-221-0112.
American Legion Breakfasts
Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Burton Middlefield American Legion Atwood-Mauck Post 459 is serving its annual all-you-can-eat pancake, sausage and scrambled eggs breakfasts every Sunday through April 19, excluding Easter, at the post located at 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton. Cost is $10
for adults, $5 for children ages 6-13 and free for children under 6.
Berkshire Athletic Boosters
March 29, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Berkshire Athletic Boosters are hosting an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast in the Berkshire High School cafeteria, 14155 Claridon Troy Road in Burton.
Burton Fire Station
March 29, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Burton Fire Station will serve an all-youcan-eat pancake and sausage breakfast at the station located at 13828 Spring St. in Burton. call 440-834-4416 for information.
Geauga Historical Society
March 29, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Geauga County Historical Society is hosting an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast in the Lennah Bond Activity Center at the Century Village Museum, 14653 East Park St. in Burton. For more information, call 440-834-1492.
Call For Artists
The 34th annual Juried Art Show, sponsored by Rabbit Run Community Arts Association (RRCAA) and the Madison Public Library, opens April 2 and applications for admission are being accepted through March 30.
The art show runs April 2-29 at the Madison Public Library and is open to all visual artists in Northeast Ohio. Any high school or adult artist may submit up to three works in any two-dimensional medium. Small three-dimensional works may be submitted as well. Cash prizes and ribbons will be awarded for both adults and students.
Applications for entry are available at the RRCAA office, 49 Park St., Madison Village; Madison Public Library; or by visiting rabbitrun.org.
The Art Show Awards reception is April 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Madison Public Library. All are welcome.
Community Meetings
Listed are upcoming public meetings and executive sessions. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.
Chester Township: March 31, 6 p.m., Land Use Plan meeting; April 1, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; April 2, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 13, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; April 15, 7 p.m., Zoning Commis-
sion; April 16, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; March 21, 6 p.m., Land Use Plan Meeting; April 22, 7 p.m., Park Board; April 30, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Russell Township: March 25, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission; April 2, 2:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 13, 7 p.m., Board
of Zoning Appeals; April 16, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees; April 22, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held in the new Community Room at 8501 Kinsman Road, unless otherwise noted.
West Geauga BOE: April 20, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
Softball from page 1
and then fall ball, and then, for the ones that don't, it's funny, they're extremely, extremely talented athletes,” Coach Percassi said. “I do feel like that's beneficial to us, because they're competing and they're being athletic, they're moving, so the ones that didn't play in the summer, at least they're still being athletic. So, yeah, so I think it's a good mix. For the girls that play all summer and fall, obviously, they're seeing pitches and have a good feel for the game, so I do think they'll use that to really get into this season and be better, because they've continued to play the game.”
West Geauga embarks for Orlando, Fla., this week to avoid the Ohio weather and kick off its regular-season schedule down south, helping them get a good feel for what kind of team they can be upon their return.
“We've got a lot of kids back, so our lineup is pretty much set, just a few question marks that we've got to get answered,” Percassi said. “I believe many of these girls will contribute, not only in Florida, but throughout the year. So we're excited about them getting that opportunity to play, but I'm also excited about them having fun and experiencing life as high school kids. We're staying at Universal. They're gonna get to go to the parks when we're not playing like games, so it's just something that they'll always remember.”
The returning players feature junior Ava Borz, who batted .486 last season, tying the team lead with 36 hits and adding 39 Runs Batted in (RBi), with 13 doubles, five triples, and six homers plus 33 runs scored.
Baseball from page 1
nament play. Hawken will play small ball which is kind of what you'd see in the tournament as well, so it really gets you ready for tournament play. Last year we won the first tournament game since 2012, and playing good competition towards the end of the year is really important. We look forward to the challenge.”
One element that could be huge for West Geauga is their run production at the plate.
They had a jump from 2024 to 2025, and are looking to make an even bigger one this Spring.
“We jumped up two runs from 2024 to
Morgan Atwara returns for her senior year after batting .327 last year with 15 RBi and two home runs.
Senior Lely Percassi will take control in the circle where she totaled 121. innings pitched with a 4.50 earned run average (ERA) in 24 appearances with 97 punchouts. Percassi also batted .329 with 26 hits, 24 RBIs, and one home run.
Gabby Donofrio, Allie Arrigo, and Atwara will all see work in the circle this season as well.
The returning lineup has depth with sophomore Payton Gambatese, who batted .429 in 2025 with 36 hits and 17 RBIs. Junior Dayana Malone was the third hitter with 36 hits, a .444 batting average, 20 RBIs and 20 homers.
Faelynn Beckrest is also back, coming off a .314 average and four triple seasons as a sophomore. Senior Mallory Lear is back healthy after she drove in 10 runs in just 21 at-bats last season.
Sydney Gallagher, Danica Talcott, and Arrigo all return this year for their junior season off a combined 68 at-bats that featured 18 hits, 11 RBi, and 25 runs scored.
There’s depth, experience, versatility, and cohesiveness amongst this 2026 version of the Wolverines.
“Well, I think one of the big factors for us last year, besides having talent, is that we were a very cohesive group,” Percassi said. “They really backed each other up; nobody put each other down when they made a mistake. And this group is the same. They play better when they're loose, and they're always picking each other up when things are starting to unravel a little bit. I do think that having that mentality and cohesiveness bodes well for their success because they just never get too down, and they have fun.”
2025; we improved two runs in offensive production,” Coach Munn said. “So I think if we could average about five to six runs (per game), that's going to be the key, because we already played good defense last year, we already had good pitching, and our offense was fine. But I think if we expect to win a few more games and go another round of the tournament, I think our offense has to take it up a step.”
Much like many teams in the area, the Wolverines are off on a trip for Spring Break as they gear up for their regular season slate.
Munn said the Myrtle Beach trip will be important.
“Last year, I was encouraged that we came out of there 2-2. So you hope to win a couple of good games, especially when you never know who you're gonna get matched up with down there. The goal is to win a couple of games down there, be competitive, and come back North healthy,” Munn said. “I think that's going to be our biggest thing; we already have a couple of guys banged up. If we're healthy, we have everybody in place to be successful. We have depth as well, so even if a couple of guys are slow to kind of come back, we have enough guys behind them to be okay.”
Some of those key pieces are Tyler Fink, Jackson Remaley and Bryce Vidovic.
“Tyler Fink is our starting catcher. He was a second-team CVC player last year as a catcher, a sophomore, and a second-team utility player. So he's a really good defensive catcher, one of the better defensive catchers by far in the CVC.
“Jackson Remaley was second-team CVC as an infielder last year, and he's back. He was our number-two pitcher last year, played shortstop, hit in the middle of the lineup, and was our top hitter.
“Bryce Vidovic was our number one pitcher last year. He threw 30 scoreless innings in the conference. There are a couple of unearned runs in there,but 30 innings of unearned pitching is tough, especially in our conference.”
Chester Government Update
The Chester Township Board of Trustees regular meeting on Feb. 19 began with the opening of bids for landscaping maintenance for Parkside Park, town hall and fire department properties. The bids were forwarded to Township Administrator Mark Purchase for his review and recommendation.
Next up was an interesting presentation given by Kenny Leonardi, founder of Teaching Our Traditions (TOT). Leonardi spoke of TOT’s efforts to get youth involved outdoors with a focus on hunting and hunter safety and other hands-on skills such as sewing, gardening, cooking and fishing. By working with local businesses, TOT is also getting kids acquainted with various career options including the trades.
Diana Kresnye, of the Chester Grave Hunters, gave a presentation about the group’s work to recognize Justice and Mabel Miner and their role in the founding of Chester Township in 1801. Along with America 250, Chester Township will be celebrating its 225th anniversary this year. The potential for coordinating certain celebratory events in the community was generally discussed.
In road department business, an application to the Ohio Public Works Commission for financial assistance to address a slip/bank instability on Heath Road south of Mulberry and north of Wilson Mills Road was approved. Several resolutions of convenience and necessity were passed, including one for a slope stabilization on Blackberry Lane and the other for sizing of various pipes on Cherry Lane. Passage of the resolutions legally allows the Geauga County Engineer to commit resourc-
es to perform design work and develop bid specifications for each project.
The trustees continue to update 2026 Chester Road Department budgets and fiveyear projections. It now costs approximately $350,000 per mile of pavement if no major repairs are required. The most recent road levy, passed in 2016 generates about $850,000 per year. The general fund has routinely contributed more than $500,000 annually to support the road department. Current levy funding is insufficient to maintain even a 25-year paving cycle. Further discussions at the next budget planning meeting will include an evaluation of various levy rates for consideration by the voters this fall.
The board accepted the resignation of police officer Thomas Sindelar who has taken a role with the Geauga County Courts. Chief Young and Captain Sherwood are in the process of evaluating candidates to replace Sindelar.
Use of the town hall and parking lot was approved for the Perennial Gardeners, including their May 9 plant sale which is always a very popular event.
Trustee Brandon Davis has been working closely with the West Geauga School System to coordinate a July 3 fireworks event at West Geauga High School, preceded by a car show at a location to be determined. Those interested in volunteering or supporting the effort may reach out to Davis at bdavis@chestertwp.org
The board is also searching for a speaker for the township’s Memorial Day ceremony. Veterans or anyone who knows someone with an interesting story about their own or
a loved one’s military service are encouraged to call Town Hall at 440-729-7058.
The Feb. 25 special trustees meeting began with the swearing in of Timothy Staley Jr. as a new police officer with Chief Young providing some background. Police officers, friends and family of Staley were present for the oath of office. The board welcomes Staley and thank him for his future service to township residents.
The special meeting continued with the trustees and department heads continuing their public review and discussion of 2026 budgets which are due at the Geauga County Budget Commission by April 1. Several issues, including staffing, vehicle replacement schedules, increasing paving costs, funding sources and projected five-year expenses, were part of the discussion. Trustee Craig Richter will update the departmental and general fund budgets for final decisions in the near future. The township’s budget is due at the county budget commission by April 1.
In a second special meeting Feb. 25, and for the first time in more than four years, the Chester Park Board met with the Chester Township Board of Trustees. During the meeting, the park board presented a list of projects ranging from tree plantings to bathroom upgrades and enclosing the pavilion near the volleyball courts. The estimated cost for the projects ranged from about $210,000 to $248,000, with the park board requesting $75,000 from the township. No action was taken by the trustees.
See Update • Page 9
Easter Specialties
Seniors
AARP Driver Safety Course
April 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Geauga County seniors are invited to attend an AARP Safe Driver Course on at the West Geauga Senior Center in Chester Township.
The class is classroom-based; no driving is required. Participants should bring a driver’s license and AARP card. Check-in begins at 9:45 a.m.
A hot lunch is available and must be ordered at registration; the meal deadline is April 6.
Checks should be made payable to AARP and given to the instructor, Dave Zimmerman.
For information or to register, call the senior center at 440-279-2163.
Advance Directives
April 22, 10 a.m. to noon
The Geauga County Bar Association Advance Directives Committee and Hospice of the Western Reserve will present information and answer questions regarding health care powers of attorney and living wills and distribute standard forms at the West Geauga Senior Center.
They will then return April 29 with attorneys from the Geauga Bar to help seniors complete the forms and notarize them.
Call the senior center at 440-2792163 to reserve a space.
Obituaries
Barbara Jane Robertson
Barbara Jane Rob ertson, age 91, of Rus sell Township, Ohio, passed away peaceful ly on Monday, March 9, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her daughters and her faithful four-legged companions.
She was born on July 9, 1934, in Parkman Township, Ohio, the daughter of Bethal Beatrice (nee Hosmer) and Oscar Henry Irwin.
“Bobbie” graduated from Southington High School in 1952 and from Baldwin Wallace College in 1956. With her bachelor’s in education, she began teaching at West Geauga Elementary School, where she met first-year teacher, Douglas Robertson. She moved on to teaching at Newbury Elementary, where she retired from after 35 years of teaching.
In 1958, she married Doug and raised three daughters.
Bobbie was an avid horsewoman, loved gardening and was a talented artist and musician. She was a member of Community Church of Chesterland and sang in the church choir.
Bobbie volunteered at Geauga Hospital and Rescue Village, as well as giving her time and talents to her daughters’ 4-H group and their Girl Scout troop. The highlight of the summer was The Great Geauga County Fair,
Update
from page 8
The request will be reviewed and discussed at an upcoming public trustee meeting.
Regarding its budget, the park board receives about $4,500 per year from the local government fund in revenue, while administrative overhead costs for operating the board are about $10,000 annually. Discussions with the park board also included the number of monthly financial transactions and the possibility of forming a park committee
where she supported the girl’s showing ponies, marched in the Band-O-Rama and she baked pies for the Eastern Star Booth.
Her true passion was to rescue animals, which included horses, dogs, cats, ducks and one little Pygmy goat. This happened frequently, much to the dismay of Doug.
Bobbie is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 64 years, Doug; and her two sisters, Lora Armstrong and Jeanette Behun.
Survivors include her three daughters, Denise (Norman) Robertson-Deets, of Rochester, N.Y., Kimberly (Brenda Moore) Robertson, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, and Bobbi Jo (Jeffrey) Roshitsh, of Roanoke, Va.; three grandchildren, Kyle, Kaley and Norman; nine adoring nieces and nephews, and their children; and her beloved pets.
A private burial was held in Overlook Cemetery in Parkman Township, Ohio.
A Celebration of Life was held March 14, 2026, at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, Ohio.
Private burial was held in Overlook Cemetery in Parkman Township, Ohio.
Memorial contributions may be made to Geauga County Dog Warden, 12513 Merritt Road, Chardon, OH 44024.
Share a fond memory or condolence at www.gattozziandson.com.
as a method to reduce overhead expenses.
Park board meetings are open to the public and are held on the third and/or fourth Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings take place at the CG Accounting offices, 7840 Mayfield Road, Chester Township.
The park board meetings are open to the public with meetings held on the third and/or fourth Wednesday of each month commencing at 7 p.m. The location is the CG Accounting Offices, 7840 Mayfield Road in Chester Township.
Submitted by Ken Radtke Jr., Chester Township Trustee
Real Estate Transfers
Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the week ending March 13 and period March 16-19, 2026, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Jamie Rae Himes, 9101 Ranch Drive, to Daniel John Loyke, $338,000. (2.83 acres)
Nancy A., Helen G., Barbara J. and Joanne M. Cicirello, 13170 Caves Road, to Spencer Thomas Starr and Erin Taylor Wiggins, $376,000. (3.16 acres)
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP
Steven A. and Mara J. Hawn, 15157 Hemlock Point Road, to Bradford V. and Denise K. Buchanan, $1,875,000. (3.82 acres)
Bradford V. and Denise K. Buchanan, 9420 Music St., to Peter and Tess Augustin, $1,225,000. (6.02 acres)
Gray Rock Properties LLC, Blackford Drive, to Abhijit Duggal (trustee), $620,000. (0.31 acres)
APPEAL FOR AN AREA VARIANCE TO THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP ZONING RESOLUTION
Notice is hereby given that the Chester Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application identified as ZA-2026-3, on the 13th day of April 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at Chester Town Hall.
The applicant, Brian Boss is requesting an area variance for his property located at 11191 Winding Brook Lane. He proposes building his accessory building closer to the road than the required 70 feet from the road right-of-way. This proposal is in violation of Section 501.3 (C) of the Chester Township Zoning Resolution.
Kathleen McCarthy, Chester Township Zoning Administrative Assistant
NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ON MOTION PROPOSING TO AMEND THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP ZONING RESOLUTION
O.R.C. SECTION 519.12 (D)
Notice is hereby given that the Chester Township Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on a motion which is an amendment, identified as number ZC-2026-1 to the Chester Township Zoning Resolution at the Chester Town Hall located at 12701 Chillicothe, at 7:00 p.m. on April 15, 2026.
The motion proposing to amend the Zoning Resolution will be available for examination at the Chester Town Hall during regular office hours and available on the Chester Township website from March 19, 2026 to the end of all public hearings.
After the conclusion of the public hearing, the matter will be submitted to the board of township trustees for its action.
Kathleen McCarthy, Administrative Assistant Zoning Commission
AUTOS & PARTS
Used car for sale: Toyota RAV4, 1999, good condition, 237817 miles, recently added new brakes, exhaust system (all maintenance records available), car doesn’t completely start (needs new fuel pump), $950/OBO, 216-554-1715.
Have an antique or classic or hot rod you no longer drive or want? Senior citizen looking for a car. 440-2859475.
BUYING CARS: $Cash$ Paid for cars, trucks, classic cars, tractors, garden tractors, construction equipment running or not, scrap, cleanups. 440-465-8795.
For Sale: Model A Ford Coupe: rumble seat, hyd. brakes, solid, NO rust, runs great, good rubber, new battery. $12,500. 440-636-3623, call, no text.
FOR SALE
Two John Deer Riding Mowers. LT155 D105 4 new tires, good condition, decks need work $95. Trailer axle with leaf springs. good condition $35. 440-313-1178.
Big Pile of Sandstone: good for landscaping, Make Offer. In Middlefiled. 440-321-5997.
400 piece lot FP GEO TRAX Train set. 60’s vinyl albums. 5 drawer chest. Also, FREE Crib Mattress. 440-7291082.
karlovec group
8389 Mayfield Road, B-5 Chesterland, OH 44026
Fax: 440-729-8240
Classifieds
Majacraft Rose spinning wheel. 2 Lazy Kates, 1 extra drive band, 9 bobbins, jumbo flyer, fiber. $1,200. 440-564-1239.
Anchor Brand Folding Bench Wringer Floor Stand: 48” tall, Patent 1896, $240. 440-554-5731.
Two double-hung Provia replacement windows: combined dimensions 75 7/8 X 53 5/8. Perfect for a front window, $475. 440-336-5044 George. Custom sizes & shapes available.
GE Bottom Freezer Refrigerator: NEW! Counter depth 36” wide. Paid $2,500, asking $2,000. Perfect Condition. 805-857-9927
HONEY: local, raw, bottled. 1-lb $9; 2-lb $17; 12-lb (1-gal) $75. Mesquite and Buckwheat honey available. 440-567-2586.
Family Burial Plot for sale. All Souls Cemetery. Serene location in prime section. Section 16. 216-440-8743. Vintage Baby Buggy: $65. 440-487-2955.
Nursery Infant Scale-$6. Honda CRV floor mats-$8. Vintage metal tricycle-$15. George Foreman Grilling Machine-$10. 440-346-7708, leave msg.
RECORD ALBUMS, Old Cameras, HO Train items, large granite counter-top pieces, fresh/salt water aquariums, old clocks, kerosene lamps. Inquire. 440-338-3563. Russell.
To advertise in the Classifieds, contact the advertising department at 440-729-7667 ext. 500 or email your ad directly to ads@karlovecmedia.com
All classified line ads run in The Geauga County Maple Leaf on Thursdays, and in the Chesterland News and Middlefield Post on the weeks each newspaper is published. The Chesterland News and Middlefield Post are published every other week on opposing weeks.
☐ Here is my ad. The per week cost is $15 for the first 25 words, plus 50¢ for each additional word. ☐ I am a PAID MAPLE LEAF SUBSCRIBER entitled to 25 WORDS or less FREE each
(Words
(found on mailing label)
☐ I would like to be a MAPLE LEAF SUBSCRIBER and advertise for FREE. Enclosed is $60 for an in-county 12-month
Small worm composter bin for your garden by Vego Garden, fill with organic peels/cuttings to attract worms, $35, call/text 440-668-8768.
LAST CALL: Lithograph Prints, signed personally by the artist: Robert Bateman “Midnight Black Wolf” $1,200. Carl Brenders “Monarch Eagle” $300 and “Full House Boxes” $300. 440-729-0070.
Brentwood dual-wheel wheelbarrow: 8-cubic feet, always stored inside, $175. Antique cast iron pot belly stove: with star detail, $300. 440-635-1901.
1960’s Vintage Colin Laing 10-speed English Racing Bicycle: Campy equipped with many Campy tools. Beautiful Condition, no kidding! $500. 440-548-2414.
PETS & ANIMALS
“Franklin” adult gray tiger cat needs indoor home. 14 pounds of sweetheart! Social, neutered, vaxxed. Good with other cats. Rebecca 440-321-2485.
Dog Boarding Day Care: in-home. Call John 440-5338870. www.happyhoundhouse.com
For Sale: Puppies born 2/1/26. 3 black, 2 white. Dad-Golden Lab, Mom-Australia Shepherd “white”. $50 each. 330-442-4171, Farmington. Nigerian dwarf goats. 2 bucklings, $250 for the pair. Doe and doeling pair, $500. All are blue eyed and disbudded. Middlefield. Text 440-321-9527.
MISCELLANEOUS
FREE fact: 72,000 Americans died of a drug overdose last year!!!! Pitiful!
REAL ESTATE
Private Investor paying cash for homes/land in any condition. Call or text Brian today at 440-346-0161 for a No-obligation offer. No repairs needed. Fast closings. 4194 Helsley Fusselman Rd, Southington. $1,200,000. Horse farm, 24+ acres, barns, lg indoor arena, 3800sqft house w/7 bedrooms. Kathie Lutz 330-687-5900 or Ryan Neal 330-687-0622.
.34-acre Bainbridge lot on 306, part of Lake Lucerne community with amenities. Tap into utilities: gas, electric, sewer, private community well. SAVE BIG! 75k. 440-574-1599.
For Sale: Mobile Home at Wilder’s Senior Park, Chardon. 2BR, 1.5BA, updates include new furnace/AC. $105,000. 440-567-6128.
SERVICES
RN will do in-home health care. 440-343-3588. Buckeye Landscaping looking for new clients for upcoming season. Services including mowing, mulching, pruning, spring/fall clean-ups, also snow plowing. Call 440 883 9124.
AM Rides LLC: Reliable transportation for Amish crew hauling, cleaning crews, hunting trips, auctions, and towing. Safe, insured and on time. Airport trips also available. Call Craig: 330-431-8282. Offering Junk Removal and Demolition: 440-883-9124.
WANTED TO BUY
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119. Also, scrap cleanup and removal.
