Michelle ‘Shelly’ Bahney

Michele Jayne “Shelly” Bahney, 70, of Akron, passed surrounded by family at 9:54 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022, at her daughter’s residence.

Shelly was born on April 30, 1952, in Peru,to the late Max J. and Mary Jane (Phillipy) Gearhart. She was a 1970 graduate of Akron High School. In earlier years she was the cashier at the Akron Grocery Store as well as working at Cooksey’s Freezer Fresh, The Bindery of North Manchester, Peabody Retirement Community, YMCA of Peru, and babysat for numerous families over the years.

Shelly was a caring person. She enjoyed being able to take care of children and always tried to be heartwarming and giving. She absolutely loved her family and was proud to be raised in Akron. She served on the 4th of July Committee and was a part of the church bus youth ministry at the Akron Church of God. She was raised to respect her elders. Shelly also enjoyed watching classic TV shows and her soap operas.

She is survived by her children Justin and wife Mandy Gearhart of Akron, A’shel Bahney of Warsaw, Josh Bahney and significant other Bethann Ewing of Gilead; grandchildren Victoria and husband Carlos Rosas, Marisha, Isaiah, Madison and wife Hazel Gearhart, Jake and fiancé Hannah, and Connor; great-grandchildren Ayven, Leegan, and Ayzlynn; siblings Melea Gearhart and Randy Shaver of Akron and Michael and wife Terry Gearhart of Akron; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the local EMS and First Responders that came to her rescue, as well as Elara Hospice for their special care.

Shelly was preceded in death by her parents, brother Marty Gearhart, and a grandson Branigan Bahney.

The funeral service will take place at 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, 2022, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, with Rev. Dr. Amber Karkosky-Litten officiating.

Shelly’s final remembrance place will be in the Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Visitation hours will be from 2-5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Henry Township Volunteer Fire Department.

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