Roy E. Podojil

Roy Edward Podojil, age 88, of Russell Township, OH, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, at Reserve Care Hospice in Euclid, OH. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Eugenie, and his daughters Kristine Knapp (Timothy) and Kasie Podojil (Kate Hornick). He was preceded in death by his daughter Kimberly Guinn. He is also survived by his brother Dale (Sandra), his devoted nephew Jason (Tara), niece Amy, three grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and his cherished dogs Gabriel and Tanner.

Roy was born in Cleveland, OH, on August 17, 1937. He graduated from Maple Heights High School, class of 1956, where he was an outstanding track and field athlete and briefly attended Michigan State University on a track scholarship. He subsequently joined the United States Marine Corps, and with their support finished his education at Kent State University, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees. His Marine service included active duty at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, and he was honorably discharged in 1965 as a first lieutenant. Roy then commenced his career in education, where he was a beloved science teacher and track coach for 33 years, first at Warrensville Heights Junior High School and then at West Geauga High School. Throughout his life, he was an avid outdoorsman, hunting, raising hunting dogs, fishing, and caretaking his beloved property in Russell Township, where he lived for 60 years. In retirement, he shared his love for the environment and conservation, volunteering with the Geauga Park District. He was later appointed to the Russell Township Park Board, where he proudly oversaw the acquisition and development of several new properties for the park district. He also enjoyed woodworking, often focusing on birds and decoys, some of which he generously donated to park fundraising events and shared with family members.

Family and friends are welcome to St. John Funeral Home, 16381 Chillicothe Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH, 44023 on Monday, March 23 from 4 P.M. – 7 P.M. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 24 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 496 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH, 44022 at 11 A.M., where Roy was a devoted parishioner. Interment to follow at Riverview Memorial Park Cemetery, Russell Twp. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that those wishing to honor Roy’s memory make donations in his name to Reserve Care / Hospice of the Western Reserve (reserve-care.org).