News Summary
The Eastlake and Pepper Pike communities are in mourning following the recent passings of Marie A. Specht and Johnny Peters. Marie, an 84-year-old community pillar, is remembered for her kindness and service at Huron Road Hospital, while young Johnny, only 9, was cherished for his joyful spirit and active participation in local activities. Both individuals left lasting impacts, and their funerals are set to draw the communities together to honor their legacies of love and involvement.
Eastlake, Ohio – The community is in mourning following the recent passings of beloved local residents Marie A. Specht and Johnny Peters. Specht, aged 84, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, while 9-year-old Johnny Peters passed away suddenly on November 24, 2024. Both individuals left a significant impact on their respective communities and will be sorely missed by family and friends.
Marie A. Specht’s Legacy
Marie A. Specht, born in Cleveland, Ohio, on May 25, 1941, was a dedicated member of her community. She is survived by her siblings Janice Zak, Walter Engel, and Donald Engel, along with numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her as a beloved aunt. Preceding her in death were her husband Russell Specht and her cherished dog, Ginger.
Throughout her life, Marie dedicated 45 years to Huron Road Hospital’s business office. Her commitment to her work and the compassion she showed to those around her forged a legacy of kindness that will not be forgotten. An avid supporter of the Cleveland Indians and Browns, Marie also enjoyed bowling and took joy in the company of her siblings’ children, often taking them to local amusement parks.
Funeral services for Marie will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home in Eastlake, Ohio. The services will begin at 12 PM, with the formal service held at 1 PM.
The Joyful Spirit of Johnny Peters
Johnny Peters, the young member of the Pepper Pike community, was born on January 30, 2015. He was a fourth-grade student at Moreland Hills Elementary School and was known for his infectious smile and energetic spirit that lit up the lives of his peers, teachers, and community members. He actively participated in neighborhood games, swim club activities, and programs like Rec2Connect and Rising Star.
Johnny was a loving son to his father Steve and mother Morgan and had two younger sisters, Vera and Rose. He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Graham Allen. Johnny had a passion for adventure, often enjoying bike rides with his dad in a bike trailer and engaging in various activities that showcased his lively personality.
In honor of Johnny’s life, donations can be made in his name at The Cleveland Foundation, specifically directed to the Johnny’s Journey Fund. His funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Garfield Memorial United Methodist Church in Pepper Pike, Ohio. The service will begin at 1 PM, followed by a reception at Mayfield Country Club. A visitation is also arranged at Brown-Forward from 4 PM to 6 PM on November 29, 2024.
A Shared Sense of Loss
The passings of Marie Specht and Johnny Peters highlight the strength of community bonds and the grief that arises from losing loved ones. Both individuals enriched the lives of those around them through their unique passions and kindness. As their families prepare to say their final goodbyes, the respective communities of Eastlake and Pepper Pike are coming together to honor the legacies left behind by these cherished individuals.
As preparation for the memorial services continues, friends, family, and community members are encouraged to reflect on the joyful memories shared with Marie and Johnny, celebrating the love they brought to so many lives.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Richard Fraley Obituary
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- Dignity Memorial: Daniel Willoughby Obituary
- WKBN: Linda Yvonne McCoy Obituary
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