Obituaries: Issue One
Illustration by Don B.
This obituary section honors the lives of those in our community, both housed and unhoused. However, please understand the variations in obituaries are often due to the tumultuous nature of homelessness and we do not always have the full information around someone’s life or death. We wish to honor the lives of our community members to the best of our ability, even if we only know their street names or have limited information.
If you have an obituary you would like us to include please contact Kate at hohsharewv@gmail.com or call (304)238-9484.
Special Edition: 2020 - Current
The impact of COVID-19 has affected our world in far too many ways. One of the most unfortunate ways has been the loss of life in our houseless community. This has not just been because of the virus itself, but due to the increased mental health crises and further traumatization of folks already trying to cope with tough circumstances. Many found that COVID-19 significantly altered the little stability that they had. Most social services closed their doors and offered only “to-go” or outside, contactless services. Our homeless community found themselves being told to stay entirely outdoors without one indoor place to go from March to December 2020.
Soon we were having outdoor memorial services for several people at a time under the highway overpass. We would be amiss to go forward without taking the time to recognize those who died during this pandemic. We mourn their loss and pray God’s Forever Home holds them in peace until we meet again.
Aaron Hawkins
August 27, 1987 - February, 12, 2020
Son, brother, father, uncle, and friend. Aaron worked on the railroad until his back was injured and struggled with daily pain; however, he tried to smile and be friendly to those he met.
Mark Deaton
March 15, 1962 - May 29, 2020
Mark was a faithful friend, who was always looking out for others and sharing what he had with them. Mark was an avid biker and could be spotted around the neighbor in his bright orange coat.
Chad Simmons
Oct. 18, 1971 - April 2020
Chad was a son, brother, father, uncle, and our friend. He was an absolutely incredible artist. From sitting down with fellow artists like Bill Hogan, to those who walked past, Chad was ready to share his art with anyone. Chad also loved tattooing. His art is seen all over the Ohio Valley, from his tattoos to his works at the House of Hagar and the MoJo.
Richard James Charles Schau
September 30, 1986 - May 23, 2020
If heaven is a place where our earthly attempts at love, passion, our best intentions, and our creative imaginations can be fully actualized—then I want to see Richard Schau in heaven. I have never met a more expressive, sharing, and creative person as Richard. He literally wore his emotions and his mood in the way he dressed. In his outfits he was a blank canvas of white; a ninja of black; an explorer of khaki; an artist, no, a writer, no, not just a storyteller... but a commentator of life in full pocket-laden technicolor! Sometimes it could without doubt be a challenge to see Richard in this world; but in the short, loud, colorful instances when you connected on his level, Richard was beautiful. (Reflection provided by Vincent DeGeorge)
Ricky Mitchell
December 1, 1961 - June 27, 2020
Son, brother, friend. Ricky was known for his friendship and good nature. A long-time friend of many, who was always willing to lend a hand.
Robert Horton
January 14, 1974 - June 28, 2020
Son, friend. Robert, a friendly soul, who was quick to say hello on his way to meet his friends.
Scott Shramko
May 13, 1964 - July 20, 2020
Son, brother, uncle, friend who loved his family and the outdoors and keeping his camp nice. Scott loved to help and was out with the Street Moms, House of Hagar, and whoever needed a helping hand. Scott also loved the Steelers and one of his favorite memories was going to a Steelers game on Christmas with his brother.
Earl Stewart
July 18, 1955 - July 22, 2020
Son, friend, and guest of YSS, Earl was a quiet soul who didn’t talk or ask for much. A gentle spirit.
David “Ghost” Klepack
July 9, 1978 - August 5, 2020
Son, husband, father. David, known as “Ghost,” was a Veteran with a caring and helpful heart. He often watched out for those who were vulnerable and was always willing to lend a hand.
Joyce Trabue
November 5, 1965 - August 5, 2020
Daughter, proud mother, friend. Even with disabilities, Joyce was independent, advocated for herself and others, greeted everyone and looked out for others. She was funny, loved playing cards, and could speed race and outrun most cars in her wheelchair!
Tommy Yoho
May 8, 1987 - August 25, 2020
Son, brother, friend. Tommy worked very hard to get off the streets and get a car, and loved his job at Tecnocap. The most exciting day for Tommy was the day he was baptised. He played the guitar and sang and often shared his talent at the House of Hagar. A friendly soul, with an unforgettable smile and laugh.
Joe Hubbard
May 1, 1981 - August 28, 2020
Son, friend. Joe was open and brave about his mental illness and addiction. He was able to maintain recovery for years, but when OVMC closed Hillcrest, the journey to sustain became difficult. Joe will be remembered for his friendship, listening ear, and love of music.
Denzel Ice
April 18, 1953 - August 26, 2020
Son, friend, veteran. Denzel was a long time part of the East Wheeling community. Anyone who knew Denzel would know he tried hard to protect those he thought were vulnerable. He was a loyal friend to people and animals alike. Denzel was often sharing the little food he had with the raccoons and other animals. Even when Denzel was in the hospital, his concern was not over his belongings or his camp, but worrying about his animal friends being hungry because he wasn’t there to feed them.
Diamond Bell
October 19, 1932 - October 9, 2020
Daughter, friend. Diamond was a friend to many. She had recently lost her mother. An occasional guest at YSS who was always polite and friendly.
Bill “Sketch” Hogan
January 26, 1929 - November 4, 2020
While Bill Hogan was not homeless, he was a beloved friend to many on the streets. Known as “Sketch” for the drawings he would do of those he engaged in conversation, he was quick to share his journey of recovery with others. He was always willing to drive folks to rehab, go to meetings, share stories and wisdom, as well as tell you a joke that perhaps he had already told you once before. Bill loved us, and forever will be beloved to us.
Amber Dawn Tanner
July 23, 1983 - December 12, 2020
Daughter, sister, friend. Amber loved her friends and loved animals, especially her dog.
Brandon Snyder
February 23, 1989 - February 18, 2021
Brandon was known for bright colors and very good manners. He loved walking and being outside, was friendly, kind, and helped others.
Alona "LaLa" Lee Leavell
March 7, 1992 - April 18, 2021
Daughter, sister, friend. Alona was full of life, caring and had a personality that made you smile and feel the warmth of love.