Laura Wimer

CANTON - Laura Wimer, 45, died October 9, 2024, at home. 

She was born on February 8, 1979, in Youngstown, the daughter of Robert E. Wimer Jr. and Darlene Bokesch. 

Laura was raised in Austintown, where she attended St. Joseph School, Watson Grade School, Frank Ohl Middle School, and graduated from Austintown Fitch High School in 1997. Laura continued her education at Hiram College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and later received a Master's degree from Tiffin University. She was currently pursuing her doctorate degree, reflecting her dedication to education and personal growth.

Laura began her career at Davey Tree Expert Co. in 2008 as an operations administrator. Through her hard work and commitment, she advanced within the company and in 2021 became the director of client experience and contract management, a role she held at the time of her passing. In addition to her corporate contributions, Laura was also a past professor at Hiram College, where she taught Undergraduate Leadership Studies from 2009 to 2017, impacting the lives of many students through her passion for leadership and development.

Known for her selflessness and warm spirit, Laura made it her mission to bring happiness to those around her. Her dedication extended beyond her professional life to her community, where she was involved in various charitable endeavors. Laura took great pride in her volunteer work with the Patriot Project, serving as Board Secretary. She was recognized in 2017 by the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce and The Repository as one of 20 under 40, a testament to her impactful contributions. She also generously gave scholarships to local high school seniors within the Glen Oak School District. 

Laura is remembered fondly by her mother, Darlene Aiello; her sisters, Michelle (Fred) Wimer Adams and Shannon (Joshua) Wimer Boisclair; her step-sisters, Maggie (Keith) Yauger and Julie (Tom) Ryser; her nephews, Elijah Blackburn, Travis Blackburn, and William Layton; her niece, Shannon E. Adams; her longtime companion, Mark Cruz; aunt and uncles, Bill (Elaine) Bokesch, Dan Bokesch, Jim Bokesch, and Judi (Rick) Banna; her godparents, Marilyn and John Berchik; numerous cousins; and her beloved furry companion, a Pug named Rocky.

She is preceded in death by her father and “Daddy-O,” Robert E. Wimer, Jr.; her grandparents, Arnold and Peg Bokesch and Robert and Helen Wimer; her aunts, Teresa McMahon and Dena Bokesch; and her step-father, Nicholas A. Aiello.

Memorial services to honor Laura's life will be held at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel, located at 4303 Mahoning Ave, Youngstown, OH. Visitation will take place on October 18, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM.

The family has requested material tributes take the form of donations to The Patriot Project, 525 North Main St. Canton, OH 44720.