Michele Jo LaRusso

Michele Jo Larusso passed away at her home in Akron, Ohio, on March 5, 2026.

She was born in December of 1945 in Summit County, Akron, Ohio to parents Cosmo LaRusso and Joetta Dunbar. She attended Ellet High School where she was a star majorette, and where she met her first husband Gordon Epling, with whom she had two daughters - Heidi and Heather.

Michele and her family moved to California in 1964. She separated from Gordon, but continued to live in California for many years. She enjoyed the beach life of San Diego and Manhattan Beach. She moved back to Akron when her health kept her from working in her chosen field in the printing industry.

Michele had many interests throughout her life. She loved to travel. She took up photography as a well loved hobby. She loved all kinds of music, but especially 70's rock and the blues. She loved her cup of coffee and a game of Sudoku. She adored her kitty cats. Michele will be remembered for her kind and trusting heart, and her wry sense of humor.

In addition to her parents Michele was preceded in death by her brother Cody LaRusso; her first husband Gordon Epling; and her kitties Sara and Cosmo.

Michele is survived by her daughters Heidi Jo Epling, and Heather Ellen Epling; her granddaughter Amber Peck; her great grandson Jackson Krause; her brother Buddy Grimsley; her sisters Kim Lambert and Tami Asher; her many nieces and nephews; and her sweet kitty Annabelle.

Services will be held privately at a later date to honor Michele's life.