Justine "Nonie" Nekich

Justine “Nonie” Nekich, 90, of Chardon, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2023 at Mapleview Country Villa in Chardon. She was born October 9, 1932 in Collierstown, Virginia. Nonie was the 5th generation born in the “farmhouse” situated at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. She was extremely proud of her heritage, returning to her beloved birthplace many times over the years with her children. She spent her childhood growing up in Cleveland OH, later living in Willowick, Kirtland, Mentor and Chardon, easily making dear friends at each and every destination. She had a terrific sense of humor and loved making people laugh and smile. She was also known as a fantastic cook and found great joy in cooking for her family, friends and neighbors. Nonie loved to sing! She sang throughout her entire life, breaking out in song at any given moment was not unusual. She continued to sing up to her final days. Nonie had a heart of gold, always willing to give to others. She donated frequently to several charities for children, animals and the Disabled American Veterans. Nonie spent the past 3 years living at Mapleview Country Villa. She loved her caregivers, many of them calling her “Granny”. Her children are grateful for the love and care they provided to “Mom”. She loved her family and friends with all her heart and will be missed dearly by all who loved her. Survivors include her children, Sandra (Stephen) Wendell, Laura (Douglas Jr.) Radebaugh, and Jeffrey (Jodi) Nekich; grandchildren, Meghan (nee Bunnell) Overton, Stephen Wendell, Gregory (Maggie) Wendell, Brian (fiance Nicolle Tesmer) Radebaugh, Mark Radebaugh, Warren Nekich, her brother, Ollice (Diane) Higgins and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ollice and Anna (nee Hercsek) Higgins; and her sisters, Anna Kasperski and Colleen Cardi. A Mass of Remembrance will be held Saturday April 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Divine Word Church 8100 Eagle Rd. Kirtland, OH with inurnment immediately following at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Nonie’s honor to any children’s charity or the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Arrangements entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060. Please offer condolences at www.brunners.com .

Justine "Nonie" Nekich

October 9, 1932 - April 1, 2023