Portage County obituaries for Sept. 11-13, 2026

- Staff Report

Ronald C. Beck

Ronald Beck CopyHector, NY: Ronald C. Beck, age 61, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on September 7, 2026, at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, NY.

Predeceased by his parents, Robert and Roberta, he is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn; son, Andrew; brother, Robert; sisters, Robin and Renee (Michael); and precious dog, Lexi Love. Extended family includes Marrlee Burgess (Dave), Nan Burgess-Whitman (Roch), Kele Burgess-Gaischioch, Lance Robbins (Karyn) as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.  

Raised in Kent, Ohio, Ron was a proud graduate of Kent Roosevelt High School. A top runner on the 1981 OHSAA State Championship team, Ron had an outstanding track and cross-country career as a Rough Rider and earned a full athletic scholarship to Edinboro University.  It was at Roosevelt that the motto “Work, Want, Win” became his mantra; not just in Ron’s running exploits, but in all areas of his life.

Ron and Katy began their journey together in the college cafeteria. Eventually, after navigating their way to Canandaigua, NY, he began the path to what would become an endearing and successful career in the hospitality industry. Ron spent over two decades at the Joseph A. Floreano Convention Center, hosting events with many co-workers who would become family, including his friend and mentor, Joseph Floreano.

Ron’s calling took its final shape as the proprietor of Magnolia Place Bed & Breakfast, where his unparalleled service, attention to every detail, and, most importantly, creatively prepared meals profoundly touched the hearts of so many guests.  He also became a fixture in the Hector community, supporting local businesses and neighbors.  If you needed a hand, Ron was the one to give it.

A great lover of the outdoors, Ron immersed himself in every season.  Be it riding his motorcycle cross-country to hike a literal mountain or spending winter days skiing with Drew & longtime friend Matt, his passions always had a sprinkle of adrenaline.

Ron’s commitment to his life’s work and family never faded and continued into his final days. He was truly an example of “love thy neighbor”. He lived his life with great strength, endless drive, passion, and humor.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, 1130 Webster Road, in Webster, NY, on October 12, 2026, at 11 am.  A reception will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.

Ronald E. Miller

Ronald E. Miller, 70, of Rootstown, Ohio, passed away suddenly on September 6, 2026.

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Marjorie Elizabeth Moore

Marjorie Elizabeth Moore, age 90, passed on August 31, 2026. Born December 21, 1935, in Barberton, Ohio, Marjorie lived in Spokane, Washington.

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Cynthia Ann Steele

Cynthia Ann “Cindy” Steele, age 53 of Kent, passed away September 9, 2026. 

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Anna Belle Caipen

Anna Belle Caipen, 96, of Brimfield, passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 in the comfort of her home, with her family by her side. She was born in Birch River, WV on July 8, 1930 to the late Dwight and Hattie Mollohan.

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Jane E. Bernhard

Jane Ellen Bernhard, 81 of Brimfield, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at the Summit Corners Assisted Living in Macedonia.

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Robert Donald  Richards

Robert “Bob” Donald  Richards, 92, of Aurora, died September 8, 2026, at home. He was born June 21, 1934, in Barnesboro, PA, to Charles and Alberta (Conrad) Richards.

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