Kathie S. Ribic

KATHIE S. RIBIC (nee Leonard) age 72, beloved wife for 53 years of John; loving mother of John J. "Johnny" (wife Andrea), Joseph (wife Whitney) and the late Jennifer Ribic; devoted grandmother of Karsyn Pahner (husband Joshua), Claire, Nolan, Rainer and Hesse Ribic and great-grandmother of Crew Pahner; cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Dorothy (nee Campbell); dearest sister of David Leonard (wife Patricia), Paula Filipasic (husband Mario) and the late Ronald and Michael Leonard and Judith Hurd (husband, Robert); loving sister-in-law of Milan and Breda Ribic, Valentine and Helena Ribic, Maria and Kristian Sedmak and Toni and John Srsen; dear aunt, great-aunt, and friend of many; survived by her canine companion Buddy.

Kathie was born on April 12, 1954 in Cleveland, Ohio. She lived a life centered on love, family, and creating lasting memories with those she cherished most. She shared an extraordinary 53-year long marriage with her beloved husband, John, building a lifetime filled with unwavering love, partnership, and devotion. Together, they created a home rooted in faith, family, and countless treasured memories.

A proud graduate of Collinwood High School, Class of 1972, Kathie dedicated herself to her family as a homemaker, filling her home with warmth, kindness, and unconditional love.

Kathie found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved cooking for those she loved, spending time with family, shopping, gardening, and watching Cleveland sports. She was an avid traveler who especially enjoyed cruises, relaxing at the beach, and planning future adventures. Whether she was dancing, listening to music. exercising, or meeting friends for coffee, Kathie embraced every opportunity to enjoy life.

Those who knew Kathie will remember her as vivacious, beautiful, and incredibly strong. She possessed a heart of gold and a selfless spirit that naturally put the needs of others before her own. Her nurturing nature touched everyone she met, and her devotion to her husband, family, and faith remained the foundation of her life. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and unconditional love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Kathie will be dearly missed by many.

Contributions may be made in memory of Kathie to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

Mass of Christian Burial Friday, July 17, 2026, at Divine Word Catholic Church 8100 Eagle Rd, Willoughby, OH 44094 at 10 AM. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Kathie at DEJOHN FUNERAL HOMES & CELEBRATIONS CENTER, 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) THURSDAY 4-8 PM.