Gloria Mae Diederich
Gloria Mae Diederich (nee Fontanelle), age 89, of Burton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Jan. 4, 2026.
She was born on Nov. 20, 1936, in Geauga County, Ohio, to Benjamin and Dorothy Fontanelle (née Bartholomew).
Gloria was a very sweet and gentle soul who preferred a quiet life and never made enemies. Known affectionately by her nickname, “Chee Chee,” she touched the lives of those around her with her kindness, humility and steady presence.
She was a devoted animal lover and could almost always be found with Animal Planet playing on the television, enjoying the companionship and comfort animals brought her.
Family meant everything to Gloria. Family gatherings were often held at her home so that everyone could come to her, a reflection of how deeply she valued togetherness.
Despite enduring the heartbreaking loss of both of her sons, Michael and Donnie, Gloria maintained a strong and fortuitous outlook on life, meeting hardship with quiet strength and grace.
She also cherished traveling with her beloved sister June, as the two journeyed together across the country, creating treasured memories along the way.
Gloria is survived by her sister Connie (Alfred) DiBiase; her best friends, Joanne (Larry) Greenlee and Shirley (Tom) Mahoney; her nieces and nephews, Paula (Gregg) Davis, Bruce William Miller, Patty Kovacic, Veronica Kovacic and Andrew Kovacic; and many loving members of the Bartholomew family of Middlefield.
She was preceded in death by her sons, Michael and Donnie Diederich; her parents, Benjamin and Dorothy Fontanelle; her brother, Benjamin Fontanelle; and her sisters, Janet Kovacic and June (Glenn) Frost.
Gloria will be remembered for her gentle heart, quiet strength and the love she gave so freely to her family, friends and animals. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon, Ohio. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.
