Elizabeth Ann Drobnak (Ernst), 88, died on January 2, 2026 at her assisted living home, Symphony of Olmsted Falls. She was born on October 14, 1937 in Cleveland, Ohio as the second youngest of five children. Her family moved to Fairview Park where she spent most of her early years getting to know the families of the neighborhood and babysitting for some of their children. After graduating from St. Joseph Academy High School, she worked for Federal Department Store in Fairview Park. Her brother, Carl, met Leonard Drobnak while playing on a softball team. Carl introduced Len to his sister Liz. In 1962 she married Leonard Drobnak and had three children, Tom, John, and Dianne.
After her children left for college, Elizabeth (Liz) went back to working as a sales clerk for Horne’s and Dillard’s department stores in the 1990s. She was recognized as a Pacesetter for outstanding sales and customer service in 1993 for Dillard’s Cleveland Division. She retired from Dillard’s in 1999 to spend more time with her new grandchildren.
Liz always enjoyed her time with her grandchildren Mark Drobnak, Cassidy Miller, Rachel Drobnak, Brian Drobnak, and Griffin Miller. Elizabeth would spend many hours taking care of Cassidy and Griffin as they grew up.
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard, as well as her parents August and Marie (Harter) Ernst and her siblings, Michael (Kathy), Rosemarie, and Carl (Sharon). She is survived by her sister, Dolores (Visk), and her three children Tom (Joan), John, Dianne and her five grandchildren. Liz was a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home, 20820 Lorain Rd, Fairview Park, on January 7, 2026. Viewing from 1 to 3 pm with a short service starting at 3 pm.
