Leslie Vano

LESLIE VANO, age 58, died suddenly and peacefully at home; cherished daughter of the late James “Jim” and Carol (nee Gernhard) Vano; loving sister of Phillip Vano, Laura Puffenbarger, Matthew (wife Holly) Vano, and Linda (husband Austin) White; dearest aunt of Katie, Maggie, Hannah, Brandon, Christopher, Justin, Conner, and McKinely; dear niece, cousin, and friend to many.

Leslie is a graduate of Chardon High School, Walsh College and Kent State University. She started her career in Findlay, OH, as a reference librarian. She worked for many years at Willoughby- Eastlake public library, before continuing her career in Rockford, IL and was very excited to have recently moved back to Ohio where she reconnected with family and friends.

Leslie loved to read from a very young age, often reading multiple books at the same time, so it’s only natural that she became a librarian. She had a love of learning and had two master’s degrees. She was a fountain of useless knowledge and would have loved to have been on Jeopardy, but joked the stage freight would have prevented that. She loved to bake, often giving treats away to friends and co-workers. She loved research and working on family genealogy, something she inherited from her mother. She had a kind and generous spirit.

Leslie was an avid pet lover. She was a pet-sitter for friends and family for many years while pursuing her degrees and starting her career. She was the quintessential librarian though and had many cats over the years. She was good about not having more than a few at a time. Sheldon and Amy were with her when she passed and have found a new loving home with a lifelong friend.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Leslie to a memorial fund by clicking here. Please also consider a donation to a local pet shelter or volunteering at a library in her honor. Cremation by DeJohn Crematory. A memorial and celebration of Leslie’s life will be held on Wednesday July 29, 2026 beginning at 11:00 AM at Redhawk Grille, 7481 Auburn Road, Concord, OH 44077. All are welcome to attend. Kindly RSVP below.