Katie Meyer, beloved wife, daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away on the morning of April 16 after a courageous battle with cancer. Katie will be remembered for the way she lived: fully, generously, and fearlessly. She was brilliant, vibrant, thoughtful, and kind. Her spirit, humor, and compassion left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her. Her loss is immeasurable, but so is the impact she leaves behind in the countless lives she touched around the world, in her community, and in her family. Katie was a proud Covingtonian; wherever she was in the world, Covington was always home. She grew up in Old Seminary Square, attended Sixth District and Latonia Elementary, and graduated from Covington Latin in 2000. While in high school, she competed on behalf of the United States in the 1999 Trampoline & Tumbling World Championships in South Africa. Katie earned a bachelors from the University of Kentucky and a Masters in Urban Policy from the New School in New York City. She travelled the world during her studies, immersing herself in South and Central America, working in public administration in New Delhi, India and in British Columbia, Canada. Yet her heart remained in Covington, and she returned here in 2010. When she returned, she embraced a mission to improve our city that she would never let go. Her dedication to that mission was profoundly evident in her work as Executive Director of Renaissance Covington from 2010 to 2019. Katie was a driving force behind the revitalization of downtown Covington. She championed economic growth, supported small businesses, and helped to cultivate Covington’s vibrant sense of place that so many continue to love today. Katie was instrumental in launching and growing community events including the Farmer’s Market, RoeblingFest, Art Off Pike, the Covington Night Bazaar, and the Running of the Goats, while also helping to lay the groundwork for the city’s long-term sustainability and success. In 2015, she became a published author when she co-wrote Walking Cincinnati, a guide that highlighted the history and culture of many Cincinnati and NKY neighborhoods. In 2017, the national organization Main Street America awarded Renaissance Covington the “Great American Main Street Award” in recognition of Katie’s accomplishments. In March 2012, Katie’s drive to build community led her and her wife, Bonnie, to open Pike Street Lounge, a vibrant gathering place built around creativity and hospitality. It stood as a reflection of Katie’s gift for bringing people together and spaces where others felt welcome - all while she was continuing her important placemaking work in a variety of other roles. After helping to create a public internet network in Covington, Katie joined Cincinnati Bell in 2019 to lead UniCity, the company’s national “smart cities” initiative. While at Cincinnati Bell/Altafiber, Katie worked with cities around the country, from Honolulu HI to Dayton OH, to broaden access to the internet and technology. In August of 2023, Katie became the CEO of the Downtown Dayton Partnership, where she championed economic development, supported small businesses, and helped create a more vibrant, connected, and inclusive community. While in Dayton, she served on the Board of Directors of Heritage Ohio, YWCA Dayton (OH), Boys and Girls Club of Dayton (OH). The Boys and Girls club of Dayton described Katie as “a remarkable leader, a courageous voice for equity, and a radical champion for young people.” Katie’s sense of leadership and civic duty was also evident through her roles in numerous other organizations, including serving as a board member for organizations such as Be Concerned, the Covington Business Council, the Kentucky Foundation for Women, and Skyward. Katie served on the development committees of the Esperanza Latino Center and the Life Learning Center, and chaired the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Awards in 2023. Yet there was perhaps no endeavor that illustrated Katie’s fiercely inclusive spirit better than her work with Northern Kentucky Pride and the NKY Pride Center. Katie was the incredibly tenacious and deeply organized driving force behind so much of the Northern Kentucky Pride Center’s work. She didn’t just believe in making Northern Kentucky a safer, more inclusive, and vibrant place for the LGBTQ+ community, she actively made it happen. She was a true advocate with a rare talent for turning ideas into action and making people - from first-time volunteers to long-time advocates - feel welcomed, valued, and essential. Whether she was helping lead the creation of the NKY Pride Awards, coordinating PrideFest and the parade, or simply connecting members of the community, Katie showed up when it mattered most. Always. Her impact will continue to be felt in the community she helped build and the example she set for others. Katie was also a devoted and beloved mother, and her children wish to share what she meant to them. She taught them to dream bigger than they ever imagined, and to believe they were capable of achieving anything - including traveling to places they once only dreamed of. She widened their perspectives on life in ways too countless to name, and was both a mentor and a hero to them. Katie is, and always will be, the light of their world. In her final year, her grandson Dax brought her endless joy - she was so very happy to be his Kkay and we are so deeply grateful that she got to spend that time loving him and being loved by him. Above all, Katie’s greatest love was her wife, Dr. Bonnie Meyer, who was the center of her world and her trusted partner. From the moment they met in 2011, they were inseparable–it was love at first sight. They wed in New York City’s Central Park in 2012, and together they built a life filled with love and passion - for each other, for their friends, and for a better world. She is also survived by her loving parents: Joe and Dale Meyer; children: Alyssa Nickles and Kyle (Jade) Nickles; brothers: Chris (Megan) Meyer, David (Marisa McNee) Meyer and Jon (Maranda) Meyer; grandchild: Dax Nickles; niece: Lydia Meyer and nephews: Lucas Meyer and Ryan Meyer. A celebration of Katie’s life will be announced in the coming days. Her family looks forward to gathering with all who loved her to honor the extraordinary life she lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that contributions be made in Katie’s memory to the NKY Pride Center, an organization close to her heart. Katie’s life was a gift, and her legacy will continue to live on in the communities she shaped and the people she inspired.

Charlene was born October 27, 1935 in Southgate, KY. Char was the daughter of Charles & Mildred Benzing. She graduated from Newport HS in 1953 and married her husband Andrew “Jack” Lawson in 1954. Jack preceded her in death on June 16, 2000. Char possessed a remarkable gift for music, which she shared generously through her life. She played piano, organ, violin and percussion, directed choirs, sang, danced, teaching both children and adults. Wherever she lived, she brought her musical talents to her community. Throughout their lives, Char and Jack made homes in KY, OH, NM, CA, IL, FL and MI, and along the way they explored the world together - visiting China, Russia and the Caribbean islands. She was a devoted member of Hazel Crest United Methodist Church in IL and later the First Presbyterian church in Coldwater, MI and directed choirs for both. Char’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her sons, Brian (Tamra) Lawson of Park Hills, KY and Craig (Tammy) Lawson of Carmel, IN; her grandchildren Ben (Sally) Lawson, Greg (Emily) Lawson and Andrew Lawson; and her great-grandchildren Beatrice, Jack, Cora and Annabelle Lawson. She is also survived by many cousins via her beloved Aunt Lorean Downs. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Louise Jean Steidel, age 84, of Cold Spring, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025. Born to the late Pearl Thomas Baker and Nettie Herald, Louise dedicated her life to education and community service. She graduated from Silver Grove High School in 1959. She retired from Campbell County Schools as a beloved teacher who cared deeply for her students and their success. She was also a proud member of the NEA, KEA and Northern Kentucky Education Association (NKEA). Her daughters also referred to her as the KEA Queen. She was a part of the first graduating class of Northern Kentucky University (NKU). She was a devoted advocate for local politics and served as a champion of the Local Democratic Committee. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was a faithful member of Living Hope Baptist Church in Fort Thomas. She was a huge sports fan of the Reds, Bengals, UK and Troy State. Louise was dedicated to the protection of turtles and saved every turtle that was crossing the road. She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Stanley Steidel; her daughter, Elizabeth Steidel; her brother, Pearl Edward Baker; her son-in-law, Steve Pelle; and her granddaughter, Paige Pelle. Louise is survived by her daughters, Jennifer (Joey) Jones and Melanie Pelle; her grandchildren, Steven Pelle, Jordyn Jones, and Joel (Ashley) Jones; and her great-grandchildren, Addy Pelle and Hudson Pelle. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Cooper Funeral Home. A private burial will follow for the family. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 644 Linn St. Suite 1026. Cincinnati, OH 45203-1742 or the Campbell County Animal Shelter, 1989 Poplar Ridge Rd, Melbourne, KY 41059. Cooper Funeral Home is honored to serve the Steidel family during this time.

Mary Joan Hughes (née Poston) “Joan” of Fort Wright passed away on September 22, 2025. Born on October 11, 1938, in Newport, Kentucky, she was the daughter of Cecil Francis Poston and Mary Agnes Poston (née Duvelius). She was married for 67 years to her loving and devoted husband, Terry. Joan leaves a beautiful legacy of family, friends, and accomplishments. Cherished for her fierceness, her kindness, and her joyful, fun-loving spirit, she will be profoundly missed and will remain in our hearts forever. She is survived by her husband Terry, her sons Matthew Hughes (Lynn) and Patrick Hughes (Michelle), her nephew (who is truly a son to her) Jeff Poston (Danielle), and her grandchildren Meredith Hughes, Nicholas Hughes (Cara), Kevin Henke (Megan), Patrick Henke (Robyn), Stephen Henke (Paige), Emma Hughes, Julia Hughes, Brody Poston, and Jacob Poston. She is preceded in death by her parents, her siblings Eileen Poston, James Poston, Thomas Poston, Patricia Frost, Rosemary Dean, William Poston, and Robert Poston, and her dearest daughter Monica Hughes Henke (Pete). Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, beginning at 9:00am at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Covington, Kentucky, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00AM. Joan will be interred at St. Mary Cemetery, Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky.

William David “Dave” Strategier January 2, 1950 – August 9, 2025 William David “Dave” Strategier, 75, of Covington, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025. Born in Covington on January 2, 1950, Dave grew up in Fort Wright, where he developed his lifelong love for sports, storytelling, and a good laugh. A graduate of Northern Kentucky University, Dave earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business before beginning a successful career in banking. He was well known for his easy charm, quick wit, and knack for connecting with people from all walks of life. His passions were as colorful as his personality—whether he was handicapping the ponies at the track, chasing birdies on the golf course, cheering on Kentucky basketball, or savoring a fine bourbon, Dave lived with enthusiasm and an appreciation for the good things in life. He also liked to live simply, as evidenced by his faithfully consistent weekly grocery list—purchased by his daughter each week—which never strayed far from his tried-and-true favorites. Friends and family will fondly remember his daily weather updates and his tradition of reading—and then recapping—the local newspapers, making sure everyone was informed about the region’s happenings (and maybe a few extra details). Dave is survived by his daughter Lindsey (Mark Collier); grandsons Benny and Landon; brothers Kenny (Dixie) and Giles (Gina); former wife Karen; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Marcia (Witte) Strategier, and by his beloved son, Brent “Bo” Strategier. In accordance with his wishes, Dave has donated his body to the University of Cincinnati Medical School, and no immediate services will be held. A celebration of his life will be planned at a later date, where friends and family will be encouraged to share a memory, a laugh, or a toast in his honor. Dave’s warm heart, clever humor, and unshakable love for family will be deeply missed—but his stories, sayings, and spirit will live on every time we hear the crack of a golf club, the roar of Rupp Arena, or the rustle of a fresh newspaper.

Gregory Dean “Greg” Morris, age 64, of Oakwood, Ohio (formerly of Cincinnati), passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Greg’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband for 38 years to Kathryn “Katie” Hils of Oakwood, Ohio, and loving father to Olivia Morris of Kettering, Ohio, and Henry Morris of Columbus, Ohio. Greg was born in Cincinnati on January 28, 1961. He was raised in Price Hill, attended Elder High School (Class of 1979), and graduated from Cumberland Junior College. Greg was an outstanding left-handed pitcher for Elder High School, Bentley Post summer ball and Cumberland Junior College. After college, Greg became an accomplished local amateur golfer and thoroughly enjoyed coaching his son’s baseball teams. He retired as a Senior Sales Manager from SKKR, Inc. In addition to his wife, Katie, and his children, Olivia and Henry, Greg is also survived by his loving mother Peggy Morris Bova (Charles), sister Nancy Foster, uncles Sim (Lowanda) Morris and Plaze Bowling, sisters-in-law Lori Hils and Jennifer (Donny) Petro, brothers-in–law Mike (Dawn) Hils, and Jeff (Roni) Hils, and nieces and nephews. Greg was preceded in death by his father Harold “Hitter” Morris, his grandparents, Art and Virginia Doyle and Arnold and Daisy Morris, and his mother and father-in-law Kathleen and Martin “Mote” Hils. Greg’s legacy will always be one of tremendous courage, integrity, and profound love for his family and lifelong friends. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A visitation honoring Greg will take place on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains, 325 W. 8th St., Cincinnati, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 am. A reception will immediately follow the Mass in the Cathedral Undercroft. A private burial will be held at Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio. Greg’s family is grateful for the extraordinary medical care he received from The Christ Hospital physicians Dr. Gregory Egnaczyk, Dr. Saad Hasan, and Dr. Joseph Kremer, and the University of Cincinnati Health Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit team. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Greg’s name to The Christ Hospital Kidney Transplant Program.

Beverly Elaine Burcham, 78, of Burlington, KY, passed away on July 20, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospice in Edgewood, KY, surrounded by her loving family.Born on May 24, 1947, Beverly grew up in Burlington as the cherished only child of Clifford and Eleanor Groger (née Kinman). In her childhood years, she often went to Cincinnati with her mother to shop and see shows and then to visit her daddy at work at the Covington mechanic’s garage. She also spent time at her Grandma Kinman’s farm surrounded by the love of her extended family. She met her husband, Larry Burcham, during their time at Boone County High School, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, hard work, and community service. Beverly dedicated 37 years as Office Manager at KOI, where she wasn’t just a coworker—she was family, known for her work ethic, generosity, and nurturing spirit. Whether it was work, home, or community, Beverly gave her time and heart fully to every endeavor. She was a proud and active member of her community, serving with the Boone County Garden Club, Treasurer of The Bean Bash, a long-standing leader with the Boone County Fair, and Chairwoman for the Kentucky Association of Fairs and Horse Shows Beauty Pageant. At Burlington Baptist Church, she shared her gifts through the flower committee, decorating for services, Sunday school involvement, and even playing piano and organ when needed. Beverly loved life at full speed. She could be found mowing on her tractor, tending her flowers, canning fruits and vegetables, taking gator rides or cooking up Sunday lunches after church for her growing family. Family was at the heart of everything she did—whether hosting gatherings of 17 or 100 or cheering on her grandchildren at sporting events all over the US, she showed up for those she loved. She cherished holiday gatherings with extended family, parties at the pond, and attending events at the fair even during the toughest days of her illness. Beverly was full of life—competitive in games of Croquet, Scrabble, Password, Dominos, Rummikub and any card game, (always keeping score!), adventurous enough to zipline and play pickleball, and happiest surrounded by family. She carried a calendar to track every grandchild’s event and made every birthday special, complete with entrée and dessert choices. She was the one everyone could count on—whether it was delivering food to shut-ins, driving friends and family to events and horse shows, arranging fresh flower displays, or helping with house projects, Beverly did it all with a giving heart and tireless energy. Beverly’s greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 60 years, Larry Burcham; 2 daughters, Bridget (Jeff) Kremer and Brooke (Robby) Hurst; 5 grandchildren, Jordan (Chris) Hull, Logan (Aloiya) Kremer, Colton Kremer, Collin Hurst, and Courtney Hurst; and her beloved 4 great-grandchildren, Brinkley Belle and Elliott Elaine Hull, Colby Boone and Miles Lucas Kremer. She also leaves behind numerous other family members and friends. A visitation to celebrate Beverly’s life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Burlington Baptist Church, with the funeral service following at 1:00 PM. Beverly will be laid to rest at Burlington Cemetery. In honor of Beverly’s heart for service and faith, memorial contributions can be made to Burlington Baptist Church 3031 Washington St. Burlington, KY 41005.

Mr. Ronald Paul Smith, 69, of Fountain City, Indiana, formerly of the Covington and Dayton, Kentucky area, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, at Reid Health in Richmond. He was born on July 13, 1955, in Dayton, Kentucky. He was retired as an Injection Mold Tech from Montaplast. He loved watching John Wayne. Ron will be missed by his wife of 27 years, Jennifer Smith; daughters, Rae Smith and Becky Smith; sons, Ronnie Smith and Alex Smith; grandchildren, Nick Petroze, Kenzie Smith and Logan Smith; and the mother of his children, Kathy Smith. Ron’s mother, Janice Smith, is deceased. Services for Ron will be private at his request. Memorial contributions are encouraged for Animal Care Alliance, 1353 Abington Pike, Richmond, IN 47374. The Smith-McQuiston & Webster Funeral Home, Fountain City, is assisting with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at www.smithmcquistonwebster.com .

Mary Ann passed peacefully in her sleep on a family vacation June 8, 2025 on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Mary Ann, born May 8, 1949, was the oldest child of George and Shirley Kluemper of Covington, Kentucky. She graduated from the University of Kentucky, where she was active in the presidential campaign to elect Bobby Kennedy. After a few years of working in Kentucky, she attended the University of Missouri, where she received a Masters Degree in Public Health. Mary Ann then moved to Omaha for an internship in Family Practice at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. She then met Russ, who became her husband of 43 years. She was a loving mother of two sons, Ryan and Mark, daughter-in-law Alexandra, and a beautiful new grandson, Grey, all of whom live in Denver, Colorado. Mary Ann was active in many volunteer organizations, mostly involving children. Her latest, and most meaningful, was her work as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) volunteer. In this role, she worked to make foster children’s lives a little better. Mary Ann also enjoyed painting, a well written novel, and a challenging crossword puzzle. As the oldest of five, she will also be deeply missed by her siblings and their loving families. Funeral services and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Remembrances can be sent to: Nebraska CASA Association 3701 Sumner Street Lincoln, NE 68506 and to Lauritzen Gardens 100 Bancroft St., Omaha, NE 68108 or to the charity of your choice. Please share messages of comfort with the Manners family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

Donald “Don” Charles Buring, age 75, of Florence, KY, passed away on May 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Don was born on December 20, 1949, in Covington, KY, to the late Donald and Eleanor Buring. Don married Jeanne Mistler in 1973, and although they later separated, they remained close friends. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Mary Jane Buring. Don grew up in Erlanger and was a proud graduate of St. Henry High School. He earned a degree in Economics from the University of Cincinnati, where he attended on a Latin and Greek scholarship. He later received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Don began his legal career with passion and commitment, ultimately being elected Commonwealth’s Attorney for Kenton County in 1984, a position he held with honor until his retirement in 2000. Deeply devoted to justice, he was known as an advocate for victims and remained close to many of his colleagues and friends from his years of public service. Don was actively involved in the community throughout his life. A lifelong member of the Kenton County Jaycees and a dedicated participant in the local Democratic community, he continued to serve even after retirement, including as Development Director at Covington Catholic High School and as Treasurer when his son attended the school. He also served on the St. Joseph Parish Council and Boosters. Don loved playing cards (especially poker with his St. Henry buddies), golfing, and engaging in meaningful conversations. He also loved vacationing on Hilton Head Island with his family. Intelligent and thoughtful, Don’s sharp mind and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Carrie (Kevin) Iddings; his beloved son, David (Kristen) Buring; and his sister, June (Tom) Fening. He was a proud grandfather to Owen, Ellie, Andi, and Wade, all of whom brought him great joy. A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Linnemann Funeral Homes in Erlanger, KY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Barbara Catholic Church in Erlanger, KY, followed by burial at St. Mary Cemetery in Ft. Mitchell, KY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ohio Valley Voices 6642 Branch Hill-Guinea Pike, Loveland, OH 45140 or https://ohiovalleyvoices.givecloud.co/give.

Dr. Meliah Blair, 30, of Newport, KY, formerly of Ft. Mitchell, passed away unexpectedly at her home on May 11, 2025. Born on January 9, 1995, in Edgewood, KY, Meliah was the youngest child of Don and Sue Blair. She was a 2013 graduate of Beechwood High School, went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Northern Kentucky University, and completed her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University in 2021. Meliah was the Lead Veterinarian at Lawrenceburg Veterinary Clinic, where she was deeply respected by her colleagues and clients alike. Her professional passions included radiology, ultrasound, surgery, and overall wellness care for animals. Meliah’s intelligence and curiosity took her around the world — from China to Switzerland, Italy, and Paris — but she always returned home to Kentucky, where she has made a lasting impact. She had dreams of someday living in southern Europe, a reflection of her adventurous spirit. She was an eclectic soul — brilliant, silly, kind, compassionate, and full of laughter. Meliah loved Renaissance fairs, landscaping, reading, and had a flair for fashion. Though stylish and social, she was secretly a proud nerd. She found deep joy in her furry companions, Hattie B, a loyal Golden Retriever, and Figgy, her beloved cat. Meliah is survived by her parents, Don and Sue Blair; her siblings, Jay (Anna) Blair, Cassie (Manny) Adams, and Nathaniel (Kimberly) Blair; twelve nieces and nephews; and many extended family members in Wisconsin. She also leaves behind her dear friend Kaitlin (Dylan) Lawless and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and clients who will deeply miss her competitive sprit and loving guidance. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Robert and Patricia Blair, and her maternal grandfather, Richard Kremer. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Mansion Hill Sanctuary in Newport, KY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Angel Fund at Lawrenceburg Veterinary Clinic which was very important to Meliah. https://paymnt.io/0ywi97 To share a story or leave an online condolence, please visit https://linnemannfuneralhomes.com/obituary/dr-meliah-marie-blair/

Gary Robert Averdick, 72, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Easter Sunday. He was the son of Bob and Esther Sommerkamp Averdick. Gary grew up in Lookout Heights, then largely fields, woods and houses under construction. A creek, pond and penny candy store helped to make it the perfect setting for this All-American boy. Gary loved ofinding frogs, turtles and other wildlife which he sometimes put in his Mom’s laundry tubs. This would delay her work until the creatures could be relocated. From early on Gary’s fun-loving ways caused him to have many buddies for life’s adventures. His natural athletic abilities led him to play defensive back for Covington Catholic’s football team. He was also on their track team which practiced on the Latonia Race Course track, running barefoot. After graduation, Gary was a cement finisher for Trumble Construction. A sales career followed. Gary was affiliated with Knights of Columbus Insurance, Nautavac and Reunion Coffee of Toronto, Canada. He later enjoyed operating his own company, Averdick Field Stone in Campbell County, followed by working for Western Hills Builders Supply. Gary was a spiritual man having been in Alcoholics Anonymous for thirty-six years. He was a caring sponsor for many. Gary raised two children with his first wife, Deborah Fox Averdick Reimer. He and his second wife, Elise Nunn Averdick, raised and showed Rocky Mountain horses. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Captain Bill Averdick, and many friends. He is survived by his daughters, Holly Averdick and Heather Averdick Wagner (Doug Wagner); grandchildren, Noah and Crosley Wagner; brothers, Mike Averdick (John Gerwe), Steve Averdick (Ruth Appel Averdick) and Joe Averdick (Liz Lavandero Averdick) as well as many nieces, nephews and dear friends. His dog, Shady, and cat, Luna, mourn his absence. Gary instilled a love of life in all of his family and countless friends. The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the caregivers at the St. Elizabeth Cancer Center for their attentive and loving care. Services have been held. Memorials are suggested to: Promises Inc., Alcoholism Treatment Program, 116 West 9th Street, Newport, Kentucky 41071. Middendorf Funeral Home is serving the family.