Blanche C. Tarhalla (nee: Homitz) of Elyria passed away Thursday November 10. 2011 at Stein Hospice in Sandusky, OH surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Washington County, PA and had been an Elyria resident since 1942. Blanche had worked as a customer service representative at Sears in Elyria. She was a member of St. Mary Church in Elyria since 1948 where she was active in the Altar and Rosary Society, Legion of Mary, a fifty year member of Catholic Daughters, and St. Mary School PTU, she was also a member of Democratic Women and worked at the voting booths, and was a member of The Elyria United Polish Club. Blanche was active with various Senior Citizen groups, and had been a Girl Scout Leader. She enjoyed crocheting, crossword puzzles, and watching old movies on television. Survivors include two daughters; Patricia Meadows (Keith) of Elyria, Carole Zarbaugh (Steve Eich) of Wakeman, OH. and a son; Robert Tarhalla of Mansfield, TX. Additional survivors include four grandchildren; Christopher Meadows, Kristin Gwin, Jennifer Higley, Bethany Elliott and twelve great grandchildren. Blanche was preceded in death by her husband of sixty eight years; Roman J. in 2005, a sister; Helen Hartle, five brothers; Joseph, Bernard, Frank, Stanley, Anthony Homitz, and her parents; Joseph and Mary (nee:Tarnoski) Homitz. Friends may call 9:30 to 10:30 AM Tuesday November 15, 2011 at The Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at State Rt. 57) Elyria (440)322-4626 where closing prayers will be at 10:30 AM Tuesday. Funeral Mass 11:00 AM Tuesday November 15, 2011 at St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave. Elyria, Ohio 44035. Rev. Fr. Charles Diedrick will be the Celebrant. Burial will be at St. Mary Cemetery, Elyria. Memorial contributions in Blanche's memory can be sent to St. Mary Church or Stein Hospice 1200 Sycamore Line Sandusky, OH 44870. Online condolences can be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com Service: 11:00 AM Tuesday November 15, 2011 St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave. Elyria, Ohio Visitation: 9:30 to 10:30 AM Tuesday November 15, 2011 Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Elyria, Ohio