Loretta Myers

Loretta H. Myers (nee Yunker), a lifelong Elyrian, peacefully entered the embrace of the Lord on September 23, having just celebrated her 99th birthday on 9/9/2025.

She is survived by her children, David A. Myers (Barb Ramage), Susan M. Myers, Diane T. Mackin (Charles Mackin), Michael J. Myers (Paula Gosciejew), Lawrence F. Myers (Stephanie Nakamura), and Nancy A. Myers.

She also leaves an amazing legacy of grandchildren (Matthew Mackin, Christine Hofmann, Michael Myers, Steven Kachmyers, Sarah Mackin, Katie Kachmyers, Rachel Myers, Jacob Myers, Becky Myers, Shel Myers, Emily Johnson and Laurel Johnson), and great grandchildren (20 and counting).

She was met in heaven by her first husband, Donald V. Myers (1988); her second husband, Richard A. Forthofer (2017); by her son, Patrick D. Myers (2005); and her grandson, Christopher Myers (2006).

As with many women of her generation, raising a bushel of children was Mom’s full-time job. One that she did with love, steadfastness, and patience. Her children are eternally grateful, although a little amazed at times at how much the grandchildren and great-grandchildren got away with. Countless sleepovers, dance parties (mostly the polka), batches of cinnamon rolls and other treats, playing chopsticks on the piano, and rounds of singing “A Bushel and a Peck” will forever be part of the memories she leaves all to cherish.

Mom’s life changed abruptly with the early death of Don Myers (after 40 years of marriage), but a few years later she bumped into a widowed, high school acquaintance at a local coffee shop - Dick Forthofer. They married and spent 23 years enjoying each other’s families, trips to Florida, and their “golden years” together. Her life was enriched by the Forthofer children and grandchildren.

There will be a reception to share memories and laughter at 10:00 am on October 4th at St. Mary’s Church in Elyria, Ohio in the Weigand Room, followed by Mass at 11:00 am in the Church and burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Thanks to all who helped care for Loretta, including the teams at Traditions Hospice, the Ames Family Hospice Care Center, her primary care physician (James) and team, and many family members and caregivers.

While Loretta always loved the flowers that friends and family gifted her with while she was alive (especially those that came from the flower bushes on Yunker Court), the family asks that you buy some for yourself in her honor! Donations may be made to the charity of your choice, or to Blessing House in Elyria (https://www.blessinghouse.org).

“We’ll love you forever, we’ll like you for always;  As long as we’re living, our [mother/grandmother/great-grandmother] you’ll be.”

Reichlin Roberts Bollinger Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family. www.reichlinrobertsbollinger.com