Westerville Remembers Longtime Residents

Community mourns the passing of several beloved community members

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:36am

The Westerville community is mourning the loss of several longtime residents, including Essam Azmi Mikhail, Richard 'Dick' Rieser, Martha Elmarie Moffett, Thomas 'Neil' OBrien, Theodore 'Ted' Sherron, Mary Elizabeth Slane, Joseph Francis Stranges III, Elizabeth 'Liz' Rhyner, and Martin Thaddeus Boratyn. These individuals were known for their contributions to the community, their passions, and the legacies they left behind.

Why it matters

The obituaries highlight the diverse lives and stories that make up the fabric of the Westerville community. These residents were deeply involved in local organizations, sports, education, and more, leaving an indelible mark on the city. Their passing is a significant loss for the community, which will remember them fondly.

The details

The obituaries detail the lives and accomplishments of these Westerville residents. Essam Azmi Mikhail was self-employed and had a strong interest in social justice. Richard 'Dick' Rieser was an avid Ohio State fan. Martha Elmarie Moffett served in the Air Force during the Korean War and worked as a beautician. Thomas 'Neil' OBrien retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation and was an avid outdoorsman. Theodore 'Ted' Sherron was known for his love of the outdoors. Mary Elizabeth Slane had a long teaching career in Westerville. Joseph Francis Stranges III was a longtime referee and coach. Elizabeth 'Liz' Rhyner worked at Ohio State and was an Avon representative. Martin Thaddeus Boratyn was a corporate counsel who loved sports, movies, and music.

  • Essam Azmi Mikhail passed away on March 30, 2026.
  • Richard 'Dick' Rieser passed away on March 21, 2026.
  • Martha Elmarie Moffett passed away on March 27, 2026.
  • Thomas 'Neil' OBrien passed away on April 1, 2026.
  • Theodore 'Ted' Sherron passed away on March 26, 2026.

The players

Essam Azmi Mikhail

A self-employed Westerville resident with a strong interest in social justice.

Richard 'Dick' Rieser

An avid Ohio State fan from Galena, Ohio.

Martha Elmarie Moffett

A Westerville resident who served in the Air Force during the Korean War and worked as a beautician.

Thomas 'Neil' OBrien

A Westerville resident who retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation and was an avid outdoorsman.

Theodore 'Ted' Sherron

A Westerville resident known for his love of the outdoors.

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The takeaway

The passing of these Westerville residents is a significant loss for the community, which will remember them for their contributions, passions, and the legacies they left behind. Their stories highlight the diverse lives and experiences that make up the fabric of Westerville.