Portage County obituaries for March 2-3, 2026
- Staff Report
Rita Mae Kuhar
Rita Mae Kuhar, 8/17/1943-2/27/26
AKA "Cooking Grandma," 83, passed away at her home in Kent surrounded by her family after a long illness. Rita was a successful realtor for over 50 years, being one of Portage County's multi-million-dollar agents. She finished her career with Wittensoldner Realty.
Rita volunteered as a Guardian Ad Litem, helping to be a voice for young children in the court system. She loved caring for feral cats in the neighborhood and helping with spaying and neutering.
If you knew Rita, there was always a meal being prepared and an open door to enjoy love of family and lots of laughter. Her favorite place was her cabin in Canada where she shared her love of fishing with her grandchildren.
Rita is survived by her spouse John, who she married in Key West 49 years ago. There, they have their second home due to mom's love of deep sea fishing. She leaves behind her loving children, grandchildren, and all others that were fortunate to call her "mama." A special thanks to Ava, Rita & John's guardian angel, for her loving care she provided during this difficult time. We are blessed to have her and call her one of our own.
Graveside services will be held on Friday March 6, 2026, 11:00am at Standing Rock Cemetery 1361 N Mantua St, Kent, OH 44240.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Rita's memory may be made to St. Jude Children Research Hospital, or St. Patrick's Church in Kent.
Arrangements entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home (330) 535-9186
Jinene M. Studzinski
Jinene M. Studzinski, age 52, of Mantua Township, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Jinene was born on June 3, 1973, to Shelene (née Bence) and the late James Studzinski. She grew up in Aurora, attended St. Rita Catholic School, and graduated in 1991 from Aurora High School. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from Kent State University.
Jinene had a lifelong love of horses and turned that passion into a meaningful career as a NARHA Instructor. She dedicated 27 years to serving as the facility and equine director at Fieldstone Farm before founding her own business, Heart Horse Farm. She cared for each horse with dedication and gentleness. As a compassionate and devoted instructor, Jinene inspired countless students, patiently guiding them to discover strength, independence, and self-confidence that would carry them far beyond the barn.
In addition to her mother, Jinene is survived by her sister, Jolene Hackett; her many beloved animal companions; and her close friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in her memory to the Portage County Dog Warden's Office, 8120 Infirmary Road, Ravenna, OH 44266, or to the Portage County Humane Society (portageapl.org/donate).
A celebration of Jinene's life will be held at a later date closer to her birthday in June. Updated service information will be available at www.buschcares.com when scheduled.
Arrangements are entrusted to Busch-Romito Funeral Home, Twinsburg (330-425-2244).
Jack G. Cooper
Jack G. Cooper, born 2/26/1960 and left this world unexpectedly, but peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours of 2/28/2026.
Dr. Karl W. Martin
Karl William Martin (1951-2025) passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, surrounded by family, in Cleveland, Ohio.
Debra L. Starcher
Debra L. Starcher of Freedom Township, passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026 with her family by her side. She was born June 6, 1955 in Ravenna, Ohio to Robert and Dorothy (Riedel) Campbell. Debra worked at K-Mart in Streetsboro, many knew her from the garden shop.
Melvin Ward
Melvin H Ward passed away peacefully at home on February 27th, 2026, surrounded by family.
Staff Report