Patti (Rittenhouse) Cavella, age 82, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away at Aultman hospital, surrounded by her family, following a lengthy and complicated illness.  She was born on March 16, 1943 in Sunshine (Mannington/Marion county) West Virginia, daughter of the late John Rittenhouse and Ruby (Starkey).

Patti retired as an optician and was an avid reader, talented jewelry maker and a lifelong artist.  Whether she was hunting for antiques or crafting something by hand, she had a unique way of finding magic in the ordinary. Patti also had a knack for turning a phrase with her dry sense of humor, and she cherished her family above all else.

Patti is survived by two children, Michael Davis and Misti Mellinger, both of Canton; grandchildren, Michael M. Davis of Georgia, Amber Davis, Melina Cavella and Leah Mellinger; close niece Cledith Sickel; sister Sandee Stamey of North Carolina and brother Donnie Rittenhouse of Massillon. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved son Joseph Cavella III; 5 brothers, David Rittenhouse, Jim Christner, Lee Christner, Gilbert Christner, Willie Christner; 6 sisters, Judy Kelley, Shirlee Christner, Joyce Gilger, Talena Hardee, Darlene Ross and Delores Spevoch.

Patti had many relatives and friends who loved her dearly.  Her presence lives on in each of us, in the memories we share of her and the love we hold in our hearts. She will be deeply missed, heart and soul.

Waltner-Simchak Funeral Home

Locally Owned Since 1917

330-455-0293