Deidre Rotondo

Deidre “Dee” Rotondo, 68, of New Philadelphia died peacefully surrounded by her family on April 24, 2013 in Akron City Hospital, following a long period of declining health.

Born September 3, 1944 in Dover, she was the daughter of the late Walt and Peg (Gribble) Miller. After graduating from New Philadelphia High School in 1962, Dee continued her formal education at Gerber Beauty School.

Dee loved to create and make her own jewelry. She was an avid craftsperson and loved participating in local craft shows with her daughter, Shawn, where she became a permanent fixture.

Former memberships included both the Dover and New Philadelphia Moose Lodges and the Eagles Club. She was also a lifelong member of the First United Church of Christ in New Philadelphia.

Other hobbies included playing Bingo, baking, and making things with her granddaughters. Dee also enjoyed being a Lady Democrat and working at the polls during election time.

On October 7, 1984, Dee married her late husband, James Vincent Rotondo, Sr., who preceded her in death on August 25, 2012.

She is survived by her 7 children, Shawn (Mark) Tidrick, Shelly (Tom) Burkhart, Scott (Amber) Byers, Kenny Rotondo, Victor “Vic” Rotondo, Jim (Brenda) Rotondo, Jr., Michelle (Mark) Richardson; 17 grandchildren, Steven Byers, Matt Torgler, Cory “Chico”, Chelsea and Destinee DeChiara, Tressa (Burkhart) Peterman, Thom Burkhart, Zack (Lauren) Burkhart, Mackenzie “Kenzie”, Jorden, and Samantha “Sami” Byers, Ashleigh Zirups, Brittany (Russell Greene) Rotondo, Lacey (Tony Piconke) Rotondo, Lisa (Todd) Granato, Kody Hidey, Christopher (Jessica Leyda) Rotondo; 8 great-grandchildren, Kiana “Kiki” Byers, Kyra Torgler, Tristan, Davin, and Valicia Peterman, Caydence Greene, Vinnie Granato, and Hallie Abel; her close cousin, Eric (Cindy) Gribble; and numerous other cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband; her son, Sami Byers; and her grandson, Ryan Peterman.

In keeping with Dee’s wishes, cremation care has taken place through the care of Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory at Dover. A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2013 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Park Christian Church, 236 Miller Ave., Dennison, O. 44621. Pastor Scot Caly will lead a celebration of Dee’s life beginning at 6 p.m. in the church.

A reception will be held in the church social hall following the memorial service.

Memorial contributions may be directed the The Tuscarawas Society for Children & Adults, Inc. – The Rainbow Connection, P.O. Box 288, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.

Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Dee by visiting the funeral home website at www.GeibCares.com.