Helyne W. Gongaware

Helyne W. Gongaware (nee Yarbrough), 72, of Elyria, died on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at her home, following a brief illness, while under the care of Hospice of Western Reserve.
She was born on November 4, 1936 in Canton, Georgia and grew up in Florida. She was a southerner at heart, and was nicknamed a "Georgia Peach."
Helyne was a devoted wife of 56 years and prided herself on raising a united family while creating individual bonds with each member. She had the ability to see the best attributes in everyone, while encouraging their talents and strengths.
She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Edward M. Gongaware, of Elyria, children, Michael Gongaware, Vivian Gongaware, Kathy LaFlam, Rick Gongaware and Tammy Gongaware, grandchildren, Nikole James, Bethany LaFlam, Cory LaFlam, Danielle LaFlam, Ryan Gongaware, Jason Gongaware and Jacob Gongaware, 4 great-grandchildren, and siblings, Dana Fort, John Rowley and Keith Rowley.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hubert and Kathryn (nee Keith) Yarbrough, and a sister, Jo Ann Rossi.
The family will receive friends on Monday, May 4th, 2009 from 6:00 until time of memorial service at 7:30 pm in the Dovin Funeral Home, 2701 Elyria Avenue, Lorain.
Contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 37500 Harvest Drive, Avon, Ohio 44011.