Obituary of Erika R. Turinsky

CUYAHOGA FALLS - Erika R. Turinsky (nee Wendt), 74, lost her courageous nine year battle with Alzheimer's disease August 26, 2013, at the Justin T. Rogers Care Center in Akron, with her beloved husband, Jack, at her side. Born in Akron, June 17, 1939, to Max Erich and Ruth Caroline Wendt, Erika lived in North Hill, attended Zion Lutheran School and was a 1957 graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School. After beginning college studies at Kent State University, Ricki, as her dear friends called her, transferred to Concordia Teacher's College where she graduated in 1961 with a BA in Education. Erika was a devoted teacher for 38 years: first, for two years at Redeemer Lutheran School in Cuyahoga Falls; then for 36 at Leggett Elementary School in Akron.  On June 25, 1966, Erika married the love of her life, Jack, and in August 1979 welcomed her only child, Rebecca Sue. She loved residing in Cuyahoga Falls for 25 years and was a lifelong member of Redeemer Lutheran Church.   Erika's true passion was for teaching. She looked forward to each school year with the enthusiasm of a student; planning educational activities that not only enriched a student's mind but also nurtured their personality. She was a firm educator: shenanigans and bullying were not allowed in her classroom. Erika loved reading and impressed the importance of reading upon her students. She incorporated Reading Rainbow, Magic School Bus and Cover to Cover into daily activities to encourage her students to read.  Retiring in June 1999 was the hardest decision that Erika ever had to make, as she wanted to continue to teach young minds. Erika is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Jack; daughter, Rebecca; brother, Roy (Pat) Wendt; nephews, Erich (Analisa) Wendt, Toby (Amie) Wendt and their children; uncle, Werner (Mary) Stuecher; dear friend Betty (Fred) Sweitzer and numerous cousins. Calling hours will take place at Redmon Funeral Home, Friday, August 30, from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, August 31, Noon to 1:00 p.m.  Funeral will be immediately following Saturday hours at 1:00 p.m. and will be officiated by Erika's cousin, The Rev. Paul Haberstock, BCC. Erika's video tribute may be seen here.