CUYAHOGA FALLS - Dolores Jane Marefka, 95, a beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and dedicated community leader, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and cherished memories.

Born in 1931 and raised in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, alongside her brother, Bill, Dolores was known from her youth for her vibrant energy and work ethic. While attending Southmont High School, she balanced working at the local Woolworth's and babysitting with a passion for the outdoors, spending her time swimming, biking, playing tennis, and serving as a camp counselor.

Her passion for guiding young minds led her to the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where she earned her degree in education. It was during her college years that she met her then husband John, with whom she would build a beautiful life and family.

Dolores dedicated her professional life to early childhood education. She spent three years as a full-time kindergarten teacher—while continuing to work as a summer waitress—and later impacted countless young lives as a dedicated substitute teacher.

Family was the absolute center of Dolores’s world. She was the proud and loving mother of four children and the adoring grandmother to 11 beautiful grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Beyond her family and classroom, Dolores was deeply committed to philanthropy and her faith. She was a devoted, long-time member of the First United Methodist Church in Cuyahoga Falls. Her compassion for children extended into her community service, where she served on the Women's Auxiliary Board for Summit County Children Services, advocating fiercely for abused and neglected children. Her leadership and dedication led her to serve as the Past President of the board, and she remained highly active across all of its committees for many years.

In her leisure time, Dolores loved staying active and connected with those she held dear. She shared countless laughs, stories, and competitive rounds of golf and bowling with her longtime friends and her special friend, Hobie Horn.

Dolores will be remembered for her boundless generosity, her devotion to her family, and her unwavering commitment to making the world a brighter place for children. Her warmth and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, John and Lori Marefka of Lakewood, OH, Bill and Connie Marefka of Birmingham, AL, Rick and Jenny Marefka of Stow, OH, and Karen and Tony Policicchio.

Funeral service will be held 4 PM Sunday October 11, 2026, at Redmon Funeral Home 3633 Darrow Road, Stow, OH 44224. Friends may call 2 PM to service time Sunday at the funeral home. Burial Northlawn Memorial Gardens in Peninsula.