Erma J. Kalinich's Obituary
Erma J. Kalinich, a cherished matriarch and esteemed member of the Strongsville community, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025. Born on September 12, 1932, to the late Steve and Helen Puskas, in Tams, West Virginia, Erma's life journey was marked by dedication, love, and service to her family and community.
In 1944, Erma's family moved to the Cleveland area, where she would soon encounter her lifelong partner and soulmate, the late Michael, at a baseball game when she was just 14 years old. Their love story was one for the ages, beginning with youthful admiration and blossoming into a partnership that would stand the test of time.
Family was the cornerstone of Erma's world. She was a devoted wife of 70 years, a loving mother to Michael D. Jr., Cynthia (Christie) DeRosa, and Kimberly Kalinich-Zacharyasz, and a caring sister to the late William Puskas (Carmella surviving). Her role as a grandmother brought her immense joy, as she shared her wisdom and love with grandchildren Michael III, Clinton, the late Daniel, Christopher (Kelli), Michael (Jessica), James (Alicia), Annie, and Anthony. Her legacy continues through her 8 great-grandchildren, who will grow up with stories of their great grandmother's kindness and strength. Erma's role as an aunt and great aunt was cherished by many, as her guidance and support reached far beyond her immediate family.
Erma's professional life commenced with the simple, sweet task of inserting jelly into donuts at a local bakery—a job that, while modest, foreshadowed her future role in nurturing and bringing sweetness into the lives of those around her. In 1956, Erma and Mike settled in Strongsville and brought their family business, Kalinich Fence Co., with them. Her role in the company was multifaceted and indispensable; she served as the treasurer, secretary, and CFO, managing the company's finances with precision and care. Mike often joked that he married Erma for her exceptional typing skills, as she could effortlessly type an impressive 141 words per minute. Together, they worked side by side for 68 years, building not just a business, but a legacy.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Erma was deeply involved in her community. She was an active participant in the Strongsville City Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Southwest General Health Foundation, contributing her time and talents to various initiatives and causes. Her commitment to the community was unwavering, and her contributions were felt by many.
Erma's interests were a reflection of her love for life and the joy she found in simple pleasures. She was an avid fan of the Cleveland Indians, and her favorite pastime was planting flowers, creating beauty in her garden that mirrored the beauty she cultivated in her relationships. However, the greatest source of joy in Erma's life was undoubtedly her family—her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the lights of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Erma's legacy is one of love, hard work, and community service. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support left an indelible mark on everyone she met. As we remember Erma, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, a life that inspired others to strive for kindness, dedication, and a deep appreciation for family and community.
Erma's memory will be treasured and kept alive through the stories shared by those who knew her best—stories of her strength, her laughter, and her unwavering spirit. She will be deeply missed, but her influence will continue to resonate within the community she loved so dearly and the family she adored. Her life was a testament to the enduring power of love and the remarkable impact one person can have on the world around them.
Friends and loved ones are invited to honor this remarkable life at JARDINE FUNERAL HOME, 15822 Pearl Road, Strongsville, on Sunday, April 13th from 4-7 PM.
A funeral service to celebrate Erma's legacy will be held at the funeral home on Monday, April 14th at 10AM. Following the service, Erma will be laid to rest at Strongsville Cemetery. NO FLOWERS PLEASE. Memorial contributions in Erma’s name may be made to the Southwest Health Foundation, 18697 Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, Ohio 44130
What’s your fondest memory of Erma?
What’s a lesson you learned from Erma?
Share a story where Erma's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Erma you’ll never forget.
How did Erma make you smile?
