Meredith M. Olivera, our dear mother, age 90, of Canton, Ohio, passed away peacefully from this life into the loving arms of our Lord on Monday, February 2, 2026. Born on July 4, 1935, in Beach City, Ohio, to the late Bernard and Bernetta (Gerst) Brahler. Meredith arrived in this world on a day marked with celebration and light- fitting for a woman whose presence brought warmth wherever she went. She lived a long and full life rooted in her strong faith, love of family, cherished friendships, and simple joys.

Meredith lived her life with a quiet strength and a joyful spirit. Her true calling in life was that of a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She also worked for more than 20 years at Nickles Bakery, where she was known for her strong work ethic and where she formed friendships that lasted long after her retirement. Outside of work, Meredith embraced life with an active spirit—bowling, golfing, reading, playing bingo and tending lovingly to her garden. She found community and friendship through the St. Michael's Garden Club, her card group, and through her volunteer work with Meals on Wheels. Whenever the opportunity arose, she embraced the chance to travel and see new places and experience the beauty of the world God created. She was fiercely independent and her generosity toward family and friends will never be forgotten. In short, Meredith tended her garden with the kind of care that reflected how she treated the people in her life. Her flowers bloomed because she loved them; her family thrived because she loved them even more.

Meredith was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fermin Olivera; her sister, Marlene Lutes; and her brother, Dennis Brahler.

She leaves behind a family who adored her: her children Desiree (Dr. Mark) Waters, Fermin (Sue) Olivera, and Mercedes (Michael) Zernechel; her grandchildren Hunter (Brooke) Waters, Dr. Cameron (Dr. Sarah) Waters, Dr. Caitlin (Dr. Steven) Tocci, Fermin (Mia) Olivera, JJ Olivera (fiancé Kendra Gastin), Weston (Erin) Zernechel, and Sydney (Stuart) Svetlak; as well as six great-grandchildren Laken, River, and Saylor Waters, Evangeline Olivera, and Leeland and Levee Svetlak who brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her sisters Alpha Gardner and Linda (Dennis) Pratt.

Meredith's life was a tapestry of faith, family, and simple joys- proof that a meaningful life is built not from grand gestures, but from everyday acts of love. Those who knew her well will remember her gentle humor, her steady kindness, and the way she made every person feel valued.

A private family Memorial Mass will be held at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, where she found comfort and connection. She will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery. In honor of Meredith's memory, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or a cause close to your heart.

ROSSI (330) 492-5830

www.rossifuneralhomeinc.com