Mueller Funeral Home

07/12/2026

Kenneth Paul Norris Sr.

Kenneth Paul Norris Sr., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, at SEM Haven. Born on May 22, 1942, in Hamilton, Ohio, Kenneth’s life was one marked by devotion to his loved ones and service to his country.

From his earliest years in Hamilton, Kenneth distinguished himself with a sense of loyalty and camaraderie that informed each stage of his life. Answering the call of duty, he honorably served as a proud veteran of the United States Air Force.

After his years in service, Kenneth became an active and respected member of his community. He was a valued member of the American Legion Post #194 in Mason, where he found fellowship with fellow veterans, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Lebanon.

He enjoyed the friendly competition and camaraderie of shooting pool, the strategy and laughter of playing cards, the tranquility found in fishing, and the thrill of watching NASCAR. Each of these pursuits brought friends and family together, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds that will endure.

Kenneth’s greatest legacy is found in those who survive him. He leaves behind his devoted sons, Kenneth (Dora) Norris Jr. and Edward Ray (Shon) Norris; cherished granddaughter Nikki (Andy) Thompson and grandson Brian Norris; treasured great-grandchildren Daryl, Mady, Tobey, and Noah Thompson; his loving brother Richard Norris and sister Kathy Moore; and dear friend Betty Childers. Their lives have been immeasurably enriched by his presence, guidance, and unconditional love.

Family, friends, and all who knew Kenneth are invited to commemorate his well-lived life. A visitation will be held on July 20, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Rd, Mason, OH 45040. Following the visitation, a graveside service will take place at Rose Hill Cemetery, 171 Mason Montgomery Road, Mason, OH 45040, beginning at 1:30 PM.

As we bid farewell to Kenneth Paul Norris Sr., we give thanks for his kindness, wisdom, and the gentle strength that defined him. He will remain in the hearts of his loved ones and all whose lives he touched.

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07/08/2026

Roberto M. Villasuso

IMPORTANT CHANGE IN SERVICE INFORMATION

A Visitation will be held on July 18, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. with a Memorial Service to begin at 10:30 a.m. at MUELLER HICKS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6780 ROOSEVELT AVENUE, MIDDLETOWN, OHIO 45005.

WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE.

Roberto M. Villasuso, fondly known to many as Robby, passed away on July 5, 2026, in Mason, Ohio, at the age of 39. Born on November 26, 1986, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Roberto was cherished by his family, friends, and colleagues throughout his life for his unique spirit, reserved nature, and the warmth he brought to those around him.

Roberto was a graduate of Lakota East High School, Class of 2005. His time there was marked by dedication to his studies and a deepening of the interests and qualities that would later define him as an adult. He pursued his career at Hi-Tek Manufacturing in Mason, Ohio, where he was known for his strong work ethic and ability to foster lasting friendships. Roberto truly valued the camaraderie and sense of purpose he found among his coworkers, and loved his role with the company.

Outside of work, Roberto was an avid reader, with a particular devotion to the works of Stephen King. His love of stories extended into his enjoyment of quoting lines from his favorite movies and television shows, especially The Simpsons, which provided endless hours of entertainment and amusement for those around him. Friends and family fondly remember his quick recall and the subtle, clever way he would weave these quotes into conversations, often eliciting a knowing smile or laugh.

Music also played a meaningful role in Roberto’s life. He enjoyed singing, frequently taking the stage at open mic nights and karaoke events, where his reserved demeanor would give way to a heartfelt performance enjoyed by those in attendance.

Time spent with loved ones was deeply important to Roberto. He was happiest in the company of his family and friends, whether during lively gatherings or through quiet, meaningful moments. Walks with his father and leisurely strolls to Dorothy Lane Market in search of delicacies were treasured routines.

Roberto’s memory is lovingly preserved by his surviving family: his father, Manuel Villasuso; his brother, Kevin (Stephanie) Pettrey; his sisters, Stephanie Pettrey, Jackie (Steve) McConnell, and Emily (Nick) Zimmerman; partner, Megan Jones and her daughters, Riley Jones and Makenzie Jones; and many loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Constance Villasuso, whose memory remained close to his heart.

Roberto M. Villasuso will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and unwavering loyalty to his family and friends. His gentle presence and unique outlook will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

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07/07/2026

Frances M. Austin

Frances M. Austin, Age 68 of West Chester, OH, passed away peacefully at UC West Chester Hospital on July 3, 2026. She was born in Augsburg, Germany on June 25, 1958. She graduated from Bellevue High School, and she earned her associates degree from Northern Kentucky University. Frances later became an Accountant and worked the majority of her career at Kingsgate Transportation for over 36 years.

Her family was the center of her world and her proudest accomplishment. Frances’ enduring love for her children and grandchildren shone clearly in every aspect of her life. She is lovingly survived by her two sons, Sam (Carrie) Austin and Zachary Austin; and her beloved grandsons, Cameron Austin and Bradley Austin. Each of them carries forward her love, gentleness, and sense of devotion.

Frances is also survived by her sister, Linda Luken; her brother, Robert Dezarn III; and her nephews, Matthew Luken and Joey Luken. The love she shared with them created cherished memories that will be treasured always. She is preceded in death by her brother, Michael Geary, who held a special place in her heart.

Life for Frances was also filled with joy found in simple pleasures. She enjoyed playing softball, watching tennis, and volleyball, and found happiness in sharing these activities with family and friends. Watching movies brought her relaxation, and she was an avid listener of Bob Segar and Queen, whose songs became the soundtracks to many happy moments.

As family and friends reflect on Frances’ life, they remember most the warmth she brought into every room, her laughter, and her unwavering commitment to those she loved. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and deep familial devotion that will remain an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

At this time, the family gathers in quiet remembrance, honoring the remarkable woman Frances was and the indelible mark she has left in their hearts.

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07/07/2026

Anna Allen

Anna E. Allen (nee Brenner), born January 16, 1934, passed away on July 4, 2026, at the age of 92.

Anna's life was characterized by unwavering dedication and a deep love for her family. She spent over three decades as an Administrative Assistant at General Electric, where her steadfast work ethic and integrity earned the admiration and respect of her colleagues.

Beyond her professional life, Anna enjoyed sewing and knitting, crafting many cherished keepsakes for her loved ones. Her skillful hands also tended to her flower garden. Anna's adventurous spirit found happiness in traveling and camping. She was a dedicated member of The Order of the Eastern Star for many years.

Family was at the forefront of Anna's life. She cherished time spent with her loved ones and was a devoted mother, grandmother, and sister. Anna is survived by her daughter, Carrie Allen; her son, Eddie Allen; granddaughters, Kati Allen and Danni Allen; and her sister, Bernice Murphy (Brenner). She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years, Harold Allen, as well as her parents, Henry and Evalena Brenner (nee Glackin).

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Rd, Mason, OH 45040. A funeral service will take place the following morning, Saturday, July 11, at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

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07/06/2026

Carson C. Spears

Carson C. Spears, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born on July 8, 1939, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to Forrest and Geneva Spears.

Throughout his years, Carson demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service, retiring from the United States Army after over 30 years of honorable dedication to his country. He brought the values of discipline, loyalty, and perseverance into every aspect of his life. In addition to his distinguished military career, he also retired from G.E., where he was known for his strong work ethic and steadfast reliability. Outside of his career, Carson found great enjoyment in his hobbies, which included collecting guns, trains, and knives.

Carson is survived by his daughter, Beth (John) Krusling; daughter-in-law, Sherry Spears; grandchildren, Matt Krusling, Andy Krusling, Josh Krusling, Amanda Jump, and Bailey Spears; great-grandchildren: Halle, Knox, Piper, Kolee, Grady, Luca, and Maxine Krusling; and numerous other relatives and friends. Carson was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Joyce Spears; his son, James E. Spears; and his parents, Forrest and Geneva Spears.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Road, Mason, OH 45040. A memorial service will follow at 12:30 PM.

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07/04/2026

07/03/2026

Yanrong Zhang

Yanrong “Florence” Zhang

1982 – 2026

Yanrong Zhang, known to many as “Florence,” age 43, passed away peacefully at home on June 28, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Florence was born in Guangdong, China, and moved to the United States at a young age. She spent most of her life in the U.S., where she went to school, built a career, made a home, and raised a family. She earned a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University, where she met her beloved husband, David.

After graduation, Florence worked for several years as a mechanical engineer in Schenectady, New York, before moving to Atlanta to join David. They later moved to Mason, Ohio, where they made their home for more than a decade. After her engineering career, Florence chose to pursue a dream of her own and built a small online fashion item retail business. Through that work, she found joy, passion, and friendship. Later in life, as her health declined, she turned much of her energy and attention to online stock trading, approaching it with curiosity, focus, and determination.

Florence was a shy and private person, but those who knew her well understood the depth of her kindness, courage, and compassion. She cared deeply for her family, especially her daughter, Fei, whom she loved with all her heart and wanted to give the very best of everything in the world. She also thought often of her parents and relatives, and always held her family close in her heart.

Florence loved traveling and seeing the world. She enjoyed trying different kinds of food and experiencing new places. She had a special interest in drawing and spent many hours learning, practicing, and expressing herself through art. She also had an adventurous spirit. She loved roller coasters, tried zipline, cave diving, paragliding, and had long hoped to one day go skydiving.

Florence had an especially tender heart for animals. She cared for the stray animals in the backyard, fed them, and felt deeply for those that were hurt or suffering. She loved her two cats dearly and spoiled them with affection. She regularly supported causes close to her heart, including animal shelters and children’s hospitals.

Throughout her 17-year battle with cancer, Florence experienced many ups and downs, moments of hope and moments of disappointment. Yet she remained remarkably brave, resilient, and hopeful. Even in difficult times, she continued to look toward better days. She often spoke about the future and retirement plans, even when her condition had become very serious. That hopefulness was one of the most extraordinary parts of who she was. Her quiet strength, gentle heart, and unwavering optimism will always be remembered by those who loved her.

Florence is survived by her husband, David; her daughter, Fei; her parents; her brother; and other loving family members and friends.

A private family visitation will be held first, followed by a public visitation on July 10, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Mueller Funeral Home. A graveside service and burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.

Florence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

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07/03/2026

Carmine D. Surico

Carmine D. Surico, beloved son, brother, and grandson, passed away on July 2, 2026, at UC West Chester Hospital. Born on April 1, 1990, in Long Island, New York, Carmine brought light and warmth to the lives of all who knew him throughout his thirty-six years.

Carmine grew up surrounded by family, love, and encouragement. He attended Mason High School, where he distinguished himself both academically and among his peers. After high school, Carmine continued his education at RIT College in Rochester, New York, embracing further learning and new experiences.

Known for his extraordinary artistic talent, Carmine’s creativity touched all who witnessed it. He was a great artist, and his dedication to his craft earned him numerous awards and accolades. His art reflected his keen eye for detail, his gentle spirit, and his unique perspective on the world. Friends, family, and admirers will remember Carmine not just for his accomplishments, but for the passion and joy he poured into every piece, leaving an enduring legacy in the art community and beyond.

Carmine cherished his family deeply. He is survived by his loving father, Johnnie Surico, his devoted mother, Barbara Surico, his brother, Vinnie Surico, and his grandmother, Helen Surico, who each held a special place in his heart. Carmine’s family was a constant source of support and inspiration to him throughout his life. He is preceded in death by his grandfather Carmine Surico, his grandfather, Bill D'Ambrosio, and his grandmother, Anne D'Ambrosio, whose cherished memories were always present in Carmine’s life.

Friends and family are invited to gather and honor Carmine’s memory at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Rd, Mason, OH 45040. Visitation will take place on July 7, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM, followed by the funeral service from 3:00 to 4:00 PM.

In remembering Carmine D. Surico, we celebrate not only his achievements but also the kindness, creativity, and warmth he shared so generously. His spirit will remain alive in the hearts of those who loved him and in the beauty of the art he leaves behind. P.S, sorry grandma for breaking the window with the baseball. His last words were "good job, mom".

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07/02/2026

John Winston Nelson

John Winston Nelson, of Lebanon, OH, was called to his eternal home on June 10, 2026, in Athens, Greece, after a brief battle with undiagnosed and aggressive prostate cancer. Born in Yakima, WA, on August 24, 1954, John grew up in Anchorage, Alaska, and was the youngest of four siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Inez Nelson, brothers Bill and Jack Nelson and sister Marilyn Allen.

John was the beloved husband of Donna Nelson for the last 20 years. They cherished one another and their love was easy for all to see. In retirement, they enjoyed traveling—including their final vacation together to bask in sunshine on the beaches of Greece.

A guiding light and a cherished father, John is survived by his children Ahna (Joe) Nichols, Alicia (Robert) Cummings, and JJ (Sarah) Nelson, as well as his stepchildren Brooke (Kenny) Ellis and Justin (Shannon) Thompson. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy for his adored grandchildren: Aria Nichols, Thomas and Winston Cummings, Rawlin and Hannah Nelson, Chase and Haley Ellis, & Eve and Renee Thompson.

John was a faithful servant of God who loved the Lord with all of his heart and lived out his beliefs daily. John had a heart for worship and dedicated much of his life to his love of music as a choir director, vocalist, instrumentalist, and worship team member. Most recently, he was an active member of Hope Church in Mason, OH, and served on the worship and security teams.

John earned his bachelor’s degree from Anderson University in Indiana and went on to have a successful career in operations management spanning 40 years, including many years of dedicated service to the transportation industry working for J.B. Hunt Transport and Red Classic Transportation Services.

A skilled handyman, John was generous with his talents, always willing to help friends and family with home projects. He lived an active lifestyle, dedicating many hours a week to the pickleball courts and reaching his daily push-up goal. John had a wonderful sense of humor, bringing levity to any situation, and was always ready to tell his infamous “dad jokes” or newly discovered puns. John will be greatly missed and forever remembered as a gentle spirit, overflowing with love, kindness, and laughter.

The Celebration of Life for John Nelson will be held at Hope Church on Saturday, July 18, with visitation at 11:30 a.m. and the service at 12:30 p.m. Hope Church is located at 4934 Western Row Rd, Mason, OH 45040. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the church’s Building Fund https://www.hopemason.org/.

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06/30/2026

Lois J. Herwick

Obituary for Lois Jean Barton Herwick

Lois Herwick, age 94, passed away on June 29, 2026. Lois Jean Barton Herwick was born in Barberton, Ohio on January 12, 1932, and was the only child of Ruby and James (Clint) Barton. Lois graduated from Barberton High School in 1950 and attended MacMurray College in Jacksonville, IL, where she graduated in 1954 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Economics. Lois was married to Dr. Charles L. Herwick in 1955 and was a beloved mother of Gary (Trish) Herwick, Richard (Judy) Herwick, Lea Ann Herwick Patrick and Rita Lee Herwick. Lois was a cherished grandmother of Mark, Ritchie and Rachel Herwick and Michael (Emily) Kerr as well as Brandon (Heather) Patrick, Chris Patrick, Erin (Shah Quarashi) Patrick and Sara Patrick. She had 6 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Lois was preceded in death by her ex-husband (Charles Herwick), son (Richard Lee Herwick), daughter (Rita Lee Herwick) and grandchild (Christopher Alan Patrick). Lois managed Herwick’s Floral Shop in Barberton for 40 years until her retirement. She then moved to Lima, OH and finally to Mason, OH to be with her daughter and granddaughters. Lois was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, where she remained active in the choir and various volunteer activities as long as she was able.

Lois was an only child. Sadly, her mother died of heart issues when Lois was just 16 months old. Lois went to stay with her maternal grandmother (Beatrice) and grandfather (Charles Edgar Kepler). Tragically, her grandmother died of a burst appendix when Lois was 18 months old, leaving Lois to be raised by her grandfather and his housekeeper Emma. Despite this sad start, Lois had a very happy childhood. Her grandfather worked at the local match factory and also ran a boarding house. The boarders loved Lois and helped watch over her. One couple was so taken with Lois that they named their first daughter Lois as well. Despite relocating to York, PA, they stayed in touch with Lois throughout their lives.

Lois had a close call in 1939 when her school blew up due to a gas leak while class was in session. 59 1st and 2nd graders were hurt as the school collapsed into the basement. Luckily there were no deaths and Lois made it out unscathed. She had a successful and happy school experience where she was active in the choir and drama club. After graduating from Barberton High School in 1950, Lois attended MacMurray College – an all-girls college located in Illinois.

Lois majored in business administration and music, graduating with honors in 1954. She returned to Ohio to marry her hometown sweetheart – Charles (Chick) Herwick. The happy couple settled in Columbus while Chick finished his degree in veterinary medicine at the Ohio State University. Lois took an administrative job at Dennison Engineering. However, that didn’t last long as she became pregnant with her first child and had her son, Gary, on her first-year wedding anniversary. In those days, a woman was let go from her job when she began having children, so Lois stayed at home with Gary. Once Chick received his graduate degree, the couple relocated back to Barberton to start Chick’s private veterinary practice. After working at a couple of other administrative jobs, Lois took a job as the accounting/payroll manager for the family florist shop (Herwick’s Floral). She and Chick had 3 more children – another boy (Rick) and two girls (Lea Ann and Rita Lee). Sadly, Rita Lee was born with heart issues and only lived 6 weeks after birth.

Lois had married a renaissance man and lived a life that reflected that. The family residence was on one Rex Lake in Summit County. The family enjoyed boating, swimming, fishing and ice skating, as well as raising a menagerie of dogs, cats and other creatures. Later, the family relocated to 9 acres to support a “gentleman’s farm” with horses, gardening, tractors and hunting. Family vacations consisted of hunting and fishing, mostly in remote areas in Kipawa, Quebec Canada that were only accessible by boat and/or portaging on remote trails. This led to many adventures with bears, moose and other wildlife. Lois was the camp organizer and cook, as well as being an outstanding fisherwoman and boater.

In 1998, Lois moved to Lima, Ohio to care for her granddaughters Erin (and later Sara) when Lea Ann went back to work. Besides being a very involved grandma, Lois had always longed to travel the world. She began to fulfill that desire when she went to Hawaii for her 70th birthday. She came back and met a fellow world traveler (and best friend Marie) in Lima. The two of them spent the next 20 years traveling the world – including Mexico, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Panama, England, France, Portugal and many more places both domestic and abroad.

Lois loved creating things through refinishing furniture, knitting, ceramics, crocheting and painting. She loved her dogs, her 1952 MG Convertible, singing in the choir, boating, camping, fishing and travelling. She loved being with people at her church, the senior center and at water aerobics. But most of all, Lois loved being with her family and spending time with her granddaughters. She was always ready for adventure and always had a smile on her face. The world is a better place for having Lois in it and we are so grateful to have had her in our lives for 94 years.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to:

The Giving Voice Foundation, Givingvoicefdn.org

Or

Faith Community United Methodist Church, 8230 Cox Rd. West Chester, OH 45069

Or

Hospice of Cincinnati; www.HospiceofCincinnati.org

A memorial service will be held at the Faith Community United Methodist Church on July 11 (Visitation 10-11, service 11-12, reception 12-1). In celebration of Lois’s life, we encourage attendees to dress in colorful, casual summer clothes.

Interment will be at the Manchester Cemetery – New Franklin Township in Manchester Ohio at a later date.

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