Mel R. Strbich

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mel R. Strbich on March 21, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on April 26, 1938, in Akron, Ohio, to George and Katherine (Stokich) Strbich, Mel ("Sonny") was a 1957 graduate of Kenmore High School. He completed his apprenticeship as an electrician for Goodyear in 1962, and retired from Aircraft Breaking Systems in 1995, with 36 years of service. During this same time, Mel received his Bachelors Degree in Accounting and was a Realtor for Schneeberger Realty. In 1977, he launched SOUND UNLIMITED, a mobile music service, adding Karaoke in 1995. Mel had a deep passion for music and loved "playing records". He started a group called MINGLES (for the married, single, and young at heart), and held dances on Wednesday and Saturday nights. To Mel’s credit, there were many who met and married because of these dances.

Mel was a 50 year member of the 21st Mason District, The Moose Lodge, and a former member of PWP. He loved chicken wings, travel, being a Snowbird, and was a diehard Cleveland Indians/Guardians fan. 

To family and friends who knew him best, Mel will be remembered as someone very special. He was loved by many and will be tremendously missed.

He was preceded in death by his sisters Donna (Don) Chudanov and Norma (Jim) Appell, and his son-in-law, Jay Rummell. Mel will be forever loved and missed by Marie, his son Dr. Steve (Dr. Connie) Strbich, and his daughters Mary Ann Rummell and Janet Catalano. He was also a loving Grandpa to Dr. Dan (Dr. Rosalie) Strbich, Ben and Madison Strbich, Erin (Ryan) Stanley, Jessica and Matthew Rummell, Dominic Catalano, and bonus granddaughter, Mikaela Toth. And he was thrilled to be great-grandfather to Holly and Riley Stanley, and Silas Strbich. (Mel received his angel wings on Silas' First birthday.) Also left to cherish his memory are his niece Cindy (Ray) Moliter, his nephew Bill Chudanov, The Lombardo Family (who loved him dearly), his best friends, Bill, Mac, and Jake, and his "boys" Sparky and Milo.

Visitation begins at 11:00am followed by services at 1:00pm on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church, 2552 Pickle Rd., Akron, OH 44312. Burial will be at Lakewood Cemetery, 1080 W. Waterloo Rd, Akron, OH 44314. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to The American Stroke Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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