Ida Gani

Ida was born June 12, 1923, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. She married Albanian native, Sam Gani in 1950 and they moved to Whiting, Indiana, to start their family. Following the early passing of her husband, she moved to Mansfield and raised her four boys on her own. She moved to Columbus almost 10 years ago to be closer to her wonderful sons.

She was a devoted mother to Nicholas (Jean) Gani, Avery (Melanie) Gani, Randy Gani and Patrick Gani, all of Columbus and Drita Scherer of Bellville. Ida was a cherished grandmother of Samuel Patrick Gani and beloved aunt to Jamel Demir, Janet Bird, Ali Hamet, Valerie Bigelow, Linda Lee-Dash, Elizabeth Dash and Jane Dash. She was a faithful friend to her beloved canine companion of 10 years, Stitch.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Sam Gani; parents, Vehap and Razi (Serat) Dash; brother, Stanley Dash; brother and sister-in-law, Henry and Linda Dash; sister and brother-in-law, Mae and Jusuf Demir; and special cousin, Victoria Hamet.

Ida worked at Manner's Big Boy and retired from Mansfield General Hospital where she was a dietary supervisor for 12 years. Family was always her primary priority and she was not only a dedicated mother to her children but a second mother to their friends as well. Her children and grandson were her pride and joy. She showered them with her love each and every chance she had. In her limited spare time, she enjoyed drawing and gardening. Ida was always positive and never judged another person. She was a strong matriarch of the Gani family and they will miss her quick wit, wisdom and eternal optimism. She leaves a legacy of love that will be cherished by her family, friends and all who knew her for all time.

The family will receive friends from 12 - 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2014, in the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. The funeral service conducted by the Imam of the Albanian Center will follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial in Mansfield Cemetery will immediately follow the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of America or a charity of the donor's choice.

"In the name of God, the Beneficent, the Merciful."