Clifford Bequeath

Loving husband, father and “Papa,” Clifford “Cliff” Bequeath passed away unexpectedly October 31, 2026, at the age of 76. A dedicated and hardworking carpenter by trade, he resided most of his life in Niles, Ohio until his recent move to Springboro, Ohio to be closer to family.

Cliff was born August 22, 1950, in Youngstown, Ohio to Russell Bequeath, Sr., and Ellen (Purbaugh) Bequeath. He was the youngest of four children and graduated from Mineral Ridge High School in 1968. He joined Syro Steel in Girard, Ohio later that year as a mat and press line worker, where he helped make helicopter landing mats used in Vietnam.

He was also employed at U.S. Steel McDonald Works where he became a carpentry apprentice and completed the journeyman carpenter program. He transferred to U.S. Steel Lorain Works and completed the electrical apprenticeship program, becoming a motor inspector. Cliff also worked at Thermal industries in Cleveland, Home Depot in Niles, Ohio and Lowe’s Pro Services, also in Niles, Ohio. He retired in August 2020.

He used his carpentry skills to produce a countless number of useful and creative projects for friends, family and colleagues, most of which will be continued to be used for years to come. He was a farmer and an avid bee keeper for many years. He was an outdoorsman and member of several hunting, fishing and boating organizations, including the Brookfield Tri-District Conservation Club. He enjoyed black powder shooting and attending events held by the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association.

Cliff married the love of his life, Joanne (Pelles), on May 19, 1973, and spent the next 53 years together, always hand in hand. Joanne survives him along with their daughter Rochelle (Robert) Sadowski, and grandchildren Austin and Lauryn Beneke. He is also survived by sister Margaret “Peggy” (James) Mallog and brother Russell (Elda) Bequeath, Jr.

He is preceded in death by parents Russell and Ellen Bequeath; parent in-laws Joseph and Naomi Pelles; sister Dorothy Kovy and her husband Charles.

Cliff also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families, all of whom he remained close to.

A very special thank you to Dr. Ramona Sheth for the care, concern and compassion she provided Cliff and Joanne over many years. Special thanks also goes to Amy, Susan and Patty for their support and kindness.

Per the wishes of Cliff, there will be no services held. He will be laid to rest in Niles Union Cemetery, where the family will hold a private gathering to say their goodbyes and honor his

life.