Audrey Zupan

AUDREY M. ZUPAN (nee Reinmann) age 92, beloved wife for 67 years of Cyril; loving mother of Edward (wife Jacqueline, deceased) (companion Beth Haug), Madonna Cherok (husband Peter) and Marilyn Hahn (husband Erich); devoted grandmother of Ryan (wife Rachael), Megan, Jason and Lauren Hahn, Chad (wife Katelyn) and Nathan Cherok and great-grandmother of Madison and Charlie; cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (nee Madden) Reinmann; dearest sister of the late John “Jack” Reinmann (wife Mary); dear aunt and great-aunt of many.

Audrey was a devoted daughter, wife, mother and grandmother.  Born in Cleveland, the oldest of 2 during the Depression Era, of Irish & German heritage, her early days were humbling at times, but always anchored in a strong Catholic faith and surrounded by a very loving family.  She excelled academically and as a leader at St. Peter High school, earning a scholarship to attend Notre Dame College. Upon graduating, Audrey worked as a research assistant for a patent attorney.

Audrey was a devoted daughter, working as a teen to support the family when her father became ill.   She always lived close by so she could be there for her parents, caring for her father when he became ill then making sure her mom could live as independently as possible following her father’s death.  When her mom started to have health issues at the age of 90, Audrey did everything she could to ensure her mom had the best possible care over a 12-year period.  She gracefully juggled her role as daughter, wife, mother and grandmother without complaint.

Audrey met her future husband, Cyril “Cy” Zupan, a high school teacher, at an event held by a Catholic singles group and they married on August 18, 1958.  Their shared Catholic beliefs and love for God served as the foundation for the 67 years together.  They settled in Euclid, raising three children:  Ed, Donna & Marilyn.

Audrey was a skilled homemaker while supporting Cy’s career advancements to principal, providing a nurturing and loving environment for their children to thrive.  As a mother, Audrey’s love was ever present, and she welcomed opportunities to be involved with her kids.  She was a founding member of the area co-op preschool, Girl Scout Leader, PTA chair, and CCD teacher to name a few.  She always found ways to support her children’s many interests providing them ample opportunities to be creative. She shared her love of the performing arts by enrolling her children in music lessons and taking the family to the theater and orchestra.   She also was a nature lover, especially evident by the family’s weeks long camping adventures every summer in their pop-up trailer.

Audrey was a woman of many talents: sewing clothing, curtains and costumes; planning themed birthday parties and making holiday favors; baking & decorating cakes; as well as managing the family finances.  From exercise videos on the VCR to mastering the microwave, cell phone and iPad, Audrey embraced technology as it emerged.  Audrey also shared an appreciation for finer things with her family like gourmet cuisine, well-coordinated décor, and a meal enjoyed on a linen clothed table, with fine China plates and sterling silver utensils.

Audrey was a lifelong learner, both book wise and hands-on. She was an avid reader of newspapers, news magazines and an array of fiction. She would work along technically inclined son, Ed, trying to fix appliances and other mechanical issues.  She strived for excellence in everything she did.  When it came to her children’s education, she was very skilled in guiding her children without doing their schoolwork.  They jokingly refer to attending the “Audrey School of Writing” as there was no way to avoid it if she were to type their papers.  Audrey was reserved, never seeking the spotlight.  Although, she was true to her convictions and would speak up when she believed the situation warranted it, and encouraged her children to do the same.

Audrey (and Cy) welcomed each new member of the family as their children married – ensuring to incorporate their new daughter and sons interests and personalities into family functions.  In 1991, they relocated to Willoughby, shortly after the arrival of their first grandchild.  Audrey & Cy embraced their new role as Grammy & Papa.  They even offered to regularly watch those grandkids who lived in the area so both parents could work.  The time any of the grandchildren spent with Grammy & Papa was always special – providing opportunities to use their imagination, intellect and creativity.  Playdough and paint, games and books, forts and costumes, and eventually thought-provoking conversations were par for the course at Grammy & Papa’s house.

Audrey suffered silently for years with osteo arthritis which eventually became crippling, limiting her physical abilities. In her late 80’s she was diagnosed with vascular dementia. Every effort was made to help Audrey remain at home but eventually her needs became such that moving to a skilled nursing facility became necessary. Despite these health challenges, Audrey refrained from complaining even at times it was apparent that she was in pain.  Audrey remained pleasant and content even as her condition declined, thanks in large part to Cy’s loving devotion and care, and the support of her children.

As Audrey enjoys her eternal reward, may those who knew and loved her, carry on her memory by:

• putting the needs of those you love before your own
• facing challenges with grace and poise
• always seeking new ways to grow and learn
• Enjoying both life’s simple pleasures and occasionally some finer things
• And, do all of this grounded in faith and love for the Lord

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Audrey to Providence House, West Side Catholic Center, or the Cleveland Food Bank. Cremation by DeJohn Crematory. Relatives and friends are requested to meet for Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 11 AM at St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church 35781 Stevens Blvd, Eastlake, OH 44095. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Audrey SATURDAY MORNING February 11, 2023, from 10-11 AM. Arrangements by THE ZEVNIK-COSIC FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS.