Bexley Alumni In Memoriam

We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the following alumni who have passed since our last update. They will be greatly missed. This list includes those we have lost from 9/2022 on and the most current obituary listings when available. We apologize for any errors or omissions. Please help us stay informed by calling us at 614-338-2093 or emailing alumni@bexley.us so we may update this list throughout the year.

  • Nicolas Edward Lloyd ’11 (2/15/23)

  • Ben Clark-Simon ‘02 (9/10/22)

    Jessica Deanne Suter '02 (9/20/24)

  • Brian D. Williams ‘80 (1/28/23)

    Jeff M. Gutterman ‘82 (2/12/23)

    Robert Huggins ‘82 (1/10/23)

    Michael C. Paradis ‘84 (2/24/23)

    Traci M. Livingston ‘88 (1/12/23)

    Jim R. Luchtenberg ‘88 (11/29/22)

    Kevin Millington ‘89 (5/15/24)

    Tracy Elaine Brown '83 (6/27/24)

  • Michael J. Butler ‘70 (7/18/23)

    Barbara Bendoff Erler ‘70 (9/12/22)

    Alan Rosenberger ‘70 (12/27/22)

    John W. Myers ’71(2/8/2023)

    Andrea Williams Utts ‘71 (11/5/22)

    Chris A. Stallman, Jr. ’79 (4/23/23)

    Alison L. Sher Smith ‘70 (12/10/2023)

    Cynthia Ray Putchat ’73 (4/9/24)

    Anita Fries '77 (8/17/24)

  • Lester H. Slobin ’60 (12/11/22)

    Geoffrey Stern ‘60 (1/30/23)

    Ron M. Dolinger ‘61 (9/27/22)

    Mary Ahlborn ‘62 (9/16/22)

    Ronald L. Clowson ‘62 (8/12/23)

    Cheri Leeman ‘62 (4/8/23)

    Brian Michaelson ‘62(10/7/22)

    Richard Westerman ‘62 (4/25/23)

    James D. Comer ‘63 (5/3/23)

    William “Bill” Isaac ‘61 (5/28/2023)

    Richard T. Davis ‘64 (10/12/22)

    Thomas J. Leukart ’64 (8/20/23)

    William Brust ‘66 (10/21/22)

    Carol Zelizer Stoff ‘68 (1/20/23)

    Michael Myers ‘64 (1/2/23)

    Ellen Klopfer ‘68 (11/3/23 )

    William “Mike” Cassidy ‘61 (11/8/23)

    Jerry Boster ‘60 (12/18/23)

    Leonard H. Gutter ‘63 (1/24/24)

    Thalia Thomas Brown’67 (3/13/24)

    John Robert White ’69 (4/1/24)

    Michael Kessler ‘69 (3/2/24)

    Thomas C. Elsass, '61 (6/19/24)

    Carol Elliott Baas, '61 (6/27/24)

    Virginia “Jinny” Buchanan McCoy '64(9/8/24)

    George (Woody) Woodworth '64 (9/7/24)

    Donald Coe '60 (1/30/24)

    Bruce Roth '66 (9/26/24)

    Eileen Brodsky Caudill, ‘61 (10/13/24)

    Edward O. Gerhold ‘60 (5/7/24)

    Linda Davis Drasnin ‘60 (9/10/24)

  • Arden Chapline Bowers ’52 (1/1/23)

    Nancy Guilford Brown ‘52 (7/6/23)

    Phyllis Katz Golden ‘52 (2/7/23)

    Rosemary Palmer Pavoni ‘52 (4/10/23)

    Sanford Solomon ‘52 (1/11/23)

    Nancy Small Hamilton ‘53 (6/21/23)

    John “Jack” Haunty ‘53 (5/24/23)

    Larry O. Mathews ’53 (2/19/23)

    Howard Gragg ‘54 (6/13/23)

    Lee Rogers ‘55 (6/10/23)

    Grace Strahm Sadosky ’55 (10/3/22)

    Larry N. Soppel ‘55 (6/2/23)

    Wavalene Kumler Tong ‘55 (9/21/22)

    Eleanor Glickman Bloom ‘56 9/10/2023

    David F. Fleming ‘56 (11/18/22)

    Peggy Hammersmith Kaplan ‘56 (8/2/23)

    Ardith Thompson Luke ‘56 (12/21/22)

    Sharon Kahn Cohodes ‘57 (5/20/23)

    Robert B. Kramer ‘58 (5/7/23)

    John Montgomery ‘58 (3/28/23)

    Neal E Noethlich ‘58 (10/15/22)

    Seyril Siegel ‘58 (4/10/23)

    David Brooks Westwater, Jr.’59 (12/13/22)

    Shirley Jones Ackley ‘52 (9/30/21)

    Ronald B. Smith ’55 (12/30/22)

    Susan Betsch Ellison '57 (12/8/23)

    Richard W. Luchtenberg’54 (2/1/24)

    C. Devere Johnson’55 (2/5/24)

    Herbert Solomon ‘50 (3/16/24)

    Jack Osbun '56 (12/15/23)

    Danforth Ball '58 (8/10/24)

    Richard Osbun '53 (7/10/24)

    Elaine Zeff Lewin '57 (10/1/24)

    Michael Smilack ‘56 (4/24/24)

    Karen Kaiser Pflaumer ‘58 (10/10/24)

    David Folkman ‘53 (11/27/24)

    Barbara Hayden Mecozzi ‘54 (9/21/24)

  • Robert J. Beeson ‘41 (3/10/2023)

    Barbara Thompson Hartnett ‘42 (11/16/22)

    Marilyn Brand Brown ‘43 (1/4/2023)

    Ellen Schlezinger Schottenstein ‘44 (9/1/2022)

    Nancy Moore Leonard ‘45 (9/1/2022)

    Helen Barrows Mallory ‘45 (3/5/2023)

    Joanne Arthur Harkless ’49 (3/3/2023)

    Betsy Townsend Zahn’ 43 (10/6/23)

    Shirley Lindenbolt Babbert’49 (1/21/24)

    Ruth Armstrong Mullin ‘49 (4/19/24)

    Barbara Vestal '49 (7/31/24)

    James Geist ‘44 (6/10/23)

  • Annette Friedman Weil ’38 (11/4/2022)

*Last updated on 12/13/2024.

We just learned of the passing of Barbara Hayden Mecozzi, Class of 1954 on September 21, 2024. Barbara was an avid reader and enjoyed gardening, watching and feeding wildlife in her yard, doing crossword puzzles, and spending time with friends and family. Read her notice here.

David Folkman, Class of 1953, passed away on November 27, 2024. He passed peacefully in his home in San Mateo a few days past his 90th birthday in San Mateo, California.

Karen Kaiser Pflaumer, Class of 1958, passed away on October 10, 2024. Karen was a talented artist and generously shared her creations, finishing each painting with her signature butterfly initials. Read her obituary here.

We just learned of the passing of several Bexley alumni this year who we did not hear about prior to the magazine dates. Michael Smilack, Class of 1956 passed away on April 24, 2024 Read his notice here. Edward O. Gerhold, Class of 1960 passed away on May 7, 2024. His notice is available here. Linda Faye Davis Drasnin, Class of 1960 passed away September 10, 2024. Read her notice here.

Eileen R. Brodsky Caudill, Class of 1961 passed away on October 13, 2024. Eileen had many deep, long-lasting friendships throughout her lifetime which is a testimony to her character. She loved big and left this world a better place. Read her notice here.

Elaine Zeff Lewin, Class of 1957, passed away on October 1, 2024. She was high school classmates with her future husband, Milton Lewin. Elaine and Milton established themselves and their family in the Central Ohio community supporting causes dear to them such as Tifereth Israel, the JCC, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio, the James Cancer Hospital, and many other organizations. Elaine had her own passions and volunteered for various community organizations. Read her notice here.

Bruce Irwin Roth, Class of 1966 passed away on September 26, 2024. Bruce was a model of acceptance and strength, known for his quick witted sense of humor and infectious laughter. He held deep love for his family, friends, and community. Read his obituary here.

Nancy Kahan Paderewski, Class of 1962 passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on September 26, 2024. Nancy was a devoted and loving mother and wife, whose commitment to her family was unwavering. Her passion for travel led her to work a stint at Hemisphere Travel. Read her notice here.

Jessica Deanne Suter, Class of 2002, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024. A proud Bexley alumna, she loved being a member of the choir and keeping score for the varsity volleyball team. read her notice here.

We just learned of the passing of Tracy Elaine Brown, Class of 1983, on June 27, 2024. Tracy was so very many things, but perhaps the most central of her gifts was her inexhaustible capacity for empathy and human connection. Tracy’s innate understanding of not only the hopes and joys but also the fears and doubts of others made her a trusted friend and confidante to countless people, whether she had known them for decades or just minutes. Read her notice here.

We just learned of the passing of Donald R. Coe, Class of 1960 on January 30, 2024. Pursuing an abiding love of music, Don played piano for many central Ohio retirement homes. Don, a train buff, was a substitute pianist in the 90’s on the AEE (a luxury train that ran Chicago to New York). Read his obituary here.

It is with great sadness the family of George (Woody) Woodworth, Class of 1964 announce his passing, on September 7, 2024. Woody died peacefully after an extended illness. Read his obituary here.

Virginia “Jinny” Buchanan McCoy, Class of 1964, passed away September 8, 2024 at her home in Parkville, Missouri. She was generous, caring, witty, and full of life. Read her notice here.

Anita Fries, Class of 1977, passed away on August 17, 2024. Her obituary will be posted when available.

Danforth ”Dan” Ewers Ball III, Class of 1958, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024. Dan & his wife, Sheila, loved cruising and traveling around the country in their motorhome. Read his obituary here.

Barbara Elder Vestal, Class of 1949, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2024 in Charlotte, NC. A graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, she served as the coordinator of homemaking events for the Miss America pageant finals from 1959 to 1961 and enjoyed traveling, craft making and bingo. Read her obituary here.

We recently learned of the passing of Richard “Dick” Osbun, Class of 1953, on July 10, 2024 (read his notice here) and his bother Jack Osbun, Class of 1956 who passed away on December 15, 2023. Jack had been a Professor and Chair of the Fine Arts Department at Wittenberg University until his retirement. Dick worked in computer science at Hercules in Wilmington DE and was a member of the North East River Yacht Club and a fan of Ohio State football.

Carol Elliott Baas, Class of 1961, passed away on June 27, 2024. She kept a very close relationship with many of her high school friends. Everyone that knew Carol knows she was a very loyal friend. Carol loved to dance and sing. Read her notice here.

Thomas Christian Elsass, Class of 1961, passed away on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Tom also served on the Bexley City Council for several years, a role he relished, as service and the preservation and betterment of the Bexley community were important to him. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Barbara Volosin Elsass, Class of 1961. Read his notice here.

We just learned of the passing of Michael William Kessler, MD, Class of 1969, in March. Michael was many things: unconventional, ridiculously smart, excruciatingly honest, an inventor, a tinkerer, perhaps the world’s most iterative builder of lakeside docks. Read his obituary here.

Kevin Scott Millington, Class of 1989, of Columbus passed away Wednesday, May 15, 2024. He owned and operated Millington Brothers with his twin brother. Kevin enjoyed fishing and was an avid Buckeye fan. Read his notice here.

Dr. Cynthia Ray Putchat, Class of 1973, who practiced clinical psychology in Washington, D.C., for 39 years, died hours after the eclipse of the moon on April 9. Read her notice here.

Ruth Armstrong Mullin, Class of 1949 passed away on April 19, 2024. She attended Wittenberg University, and Peabody University. Ruth worked for Columbus Metropolitan Library and Newark Public Library. Read her notice here.

Herbert Solomon, Class of 1950, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2024. Herb was a very kind and compassionate man who was devoted to his family and friends. He will be remembered for his positive attitude and great sense of humor. Read his notice here.

John Robert White, Class of 1969, passed away on April 1, 2024 at Mother McCory Manor. He was kind, gentle, and soft-spoken but also liked to play guitar, sail boats of all sorts, cross-country ski, ice skate, and socialize with close friends. Read his notice here.

Thalia Thomas Brown, Class of 1967, passed away on March 13, 2024. An avid fan of Ohio State University football, Thalia enjoyed singing, knitting, playing cards and reading a good book. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family. Read her full notice here.

C. Devere Johnson, Class of 1955, passed away on February 5, 2024. View De’s obituary here.

Richard Wilson Luchtenberg, Class of 1954, passed away on February 1, 2023. Richard worked for Luchtenberg Builders and proudly served in the Ohio National Guard. Read his obituary here.

Shirley Lindenbolt Babbert, Class of 1949, passed away January 21, 2024. She loved reading mysteries, watching movies,
and listening to music. Read her notice here.

Leonard R. Gutter, Class of 1963, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2024. Leonard proudly served his country both during the Vietnam War and as a member of the Army National Guard for over a decade. Read his obituary here.

Jerry Boster, Class of 1960, passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of December 18th, 2023. He loved to watch sports, especially football, and always had a funny joke or story to tell. He is survived by Carol, his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 58 years. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 9th at 2pm at Valley Community Church (4455 Del Valle Parkway, Pleasanton). Read his obituary here.

Alison Sher Smith, Class of 1970, passed away on December 10, 2023. In lieu flowers, contributions are preferred to The Good Shepherd Foundation of Ohio, 7191 Bride Water Blvd., Columbus 43235. Read her obituary here.

Susan Betsch Ellison, Class of 1957, died Friday, December 7, 2023  in Newport News, VA, where she had moved in September to be closer to her daughter. Sue was a Fiber Artist sharing her talents in weaving, basketmaking, sewing creative garments from handwoven fabrics and volunteering at a local Historic home in the Grosse Pointe Woods, MI area until her recent move to VA.  She is survived by her children, Peter (Peg Deppe) and Patti (Lloyd) Ellison and two grandchildren.

We just learned of the passing of Ron Byron Smith, Class of 1955, in Carmel Indiana after a brief illness. Ron served in the US Navy and worked for American States Insurance where he served as a regional vice president before retiring.

William “Mike” Cassidy, Class of 1961, quietly passed away on November 8, 2023. Soft spoken and easy going, Mike had an infectious personality and was well loved. He was also one of the world's best story tellers and had great comedic timing. He always knew how to work the room with a funny joke. Read his obituary here.

We just learned of the passing of William “Bill” Isaac, Class of 1961, in May of 2023.

We just learned of the passing of Shirley Jones Ackley, Class of 1952 in September 2021. Read her notice here.

Ellen Bryant Klopfer, Class of 1968, who passed away on November 3, 2023. Ellen was a loving wife, mom, grammy, mother-in-law and friend. She touched many lives and will be greatly missed. Read her obituary here.

We just learned of the passing of Michael R. Myers, Class of 1964, who passed away January 2, 2023. Read his obituary here.

Betsy Townsend Zahn, Class of 1943, passed away on October 6, 2023. Betsy was outgoing, intelligent and passionate. After marrying John in 1950 and starting a family, Betsy became actively involved in the Bexley school system and eventually served as president of the school board. She loved people, causes, and holidays, never missing a family birthday and perpetually searching for some little holiday gift to mail or give to family members. Read her notice here.

Eleanor Glickman Bloom, Class of 1956, passed away on September 10, 2023.  She will be remembered by friends and family for her always engaging smile and larger-than-life desire to enjoy every day to the fullest. Her one message to all of us is to “be kind to one another and enjoy every moment you have”. Read her obituary here.

We just learned of the passing of Nancy Lu Small Hamilton, Class of 1953, on June 21, 2023. Nancy never stopped reading books, painting watercolors, or sending mail. Read her notice here.

We just learned of the passing of Nancy Lucille Guilford Brown, Class of 1952, on July 6, 2023. Her unwavering faith, dedication to family, and commitment to community will continue to inspire all who knew her.  Read her obituary here.

We just learned that David Brooks Westwater, Jr., Class of 1959, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2022.  Brooks will be remembered for his zest for life, his shining personality, his eternal good humor and barking laugh. His kindness and love will remain in our hearts, and we are all better off from having known him.

We just learned of the passing of Michael J. Butler, Class of 1970, on Tuesday, July 18, 2023.  He loved the BHS reunions and Bexley 4th of July Celebrations.  He had an impeccable sense of humor. Read his notice here.

Barbara Pope Johnson, Class of 1950, passed away on August 15, 2023. She helped run a pizzeria and laundromat, but her favorite job was working at the Ohio State Fair with her friend JP. Barbara lived a long and happy life and will be missed every day. Read her notice here.

Thomas J. Leukart, Sr., Class of 1964 passed away on August 20, 2023. Husband of Jane McKenney Leukart, Class of 1968. Thom’s academic journey led him through the infamous halls of his beloved Bexley High School, where he graduated with the class of 1964. Thom enjoyed his ongoing lunches and conversations with many of his ’64 classmates, go Bexley Lions, forever!  Read his notice here.

Ronald L. Clowson, Class of 1962, passed away on August 12, 2023. Ronald will be celebrated as a caring family man, a skilled dentist, a devoted advocate of the natural world, and a sports and music enthusiast. His impact on his profession, his community, and his loved ones will be forever cherished and remembered.  Read his notice here.

We just learned of the passing of Rick Davis, Class of 1964, who died October 12,2022.  Rick was drum major for the marching band, played basketball and ran track.  He is survived by his wife Joy Helsel Davis in  Riverside California and three children — Matthew, Tamara and Michael.  Rick was involved in his church and served in several mission activities.

Peggy Hammersmith Kaplan, Class of 1956, passed away in Columbus, Ohio on August 2, 2023.  Peggy was an avid gardener and loved her flowers. Above all, Peggy loved visiting with all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren in Oregon, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Maine and Florida.  Read her notice here.

We recently learned of the passing of James Dean Wood, Class of 1951, passed way peacefully on August 24, 2022 at his home in Henderson, Nevada.  He was a US Army veteran, OSU graduate, and long time Vice President and later agency manager for State Farm Insurance.