Bernard F. May

Now at peace, Bernard "Brad" Francis May, age 77, of Brecksville, Ohio, passed away at home November 8, 2023 after an extended illness.

Brad was born in Cleveland, Ohio on August 7, 1946 to Charles and Jeanette (Rutkowski) May.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Ronald May and sister-in-law Geraldine (Gorzelanczyk) May.

Brad was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather and is survived by his daughters Sherrie May and T. Margarit (David) Friedman; grandchildren Alex Chipgus and Jeanette Chipgus; as well as his great-grandchildren Juliette Theriot and Josette Theriot.

Also surviving are his loving sister Charlene (Dean) Speicher of Indiana, nieces Danielle Cain and Sara (Drew) Moore, great-nephew Davin Moore and great-niece Mabel Moore, all of Arizona.

Since Brad was the second oldest grandchild of the Rutkowski and May families, he has many surviving cousins. Brad is also survived by Vickie Tveekrem and Amie Dubs.

Brad bravely served his country in the US Army from 1965 to 1969 during the Vietnam war and actively served his community as a member of Freemasons of Brecksville and the American Legion Post 196.

Brad was President of Brad May & Associates Agency Inc. which began in 1970. During his career, he served hundreds of individual and corporate clients to meet their insurance and investment needs.

He dearly loved his family and especially lit up when his great-grandchildren would visit.

Brad loved hosting and attending holiday parties with his family. One of his favorites was CuzFest, an annual (and sometimes bi-annual) gathering of cousins from the Rutkowski family.

During his illness, Brad was able to stay in his home with the loving care of his daughter, Sherrie.

Faithful visits from cousin Bob Rutkowski to enjoy dinner, movies and conversation helped to keep spirits high.

The family thanks Angie Pavone for ensuring his safe return home after Brad became ill while in Mississippi.

Brad took pride in owning his 1950 Chevrolet Deluxe that he had someday hoped to restore.

Per Brad's request, there was no visitation or funeral. His remains will be buried at the Rittman Veteran Cemetery at a future date. The family requests any memorial contributions to be made to the charity of the donor's choice.