James ‘Buzz’ Governor 1958-2024

He was born June 19, 1958, in Warren, the son of the late James and Nancy Bower Governor.

Buzz grew up in Cortland and was a 1976 graduate of Lakeview High School. His family moved to Mecca and established Governor Farms. Buzz spent his life working on the family farm and worked hard at many other jobs, including excavating, blacktopping and running a topsoil business.

Buzz owned and operated Mecca Cones and Coneys for several years and got to know many people in the community. He was proud to serve his community and was currently serving as a Mecca Township Trustee since 2012. He was a member of the Cortland Moose Lodge and enjoyed socializing and spending time with friends. Buzz found a second home in Geneva and would often spend his weekends there. He was the owner and operator of Governor Cottages and loved hosting gatherings for both family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all his friends in both Mecca and Geneva. Buzz was so proud of his family and all five of his grandsons; he would spend time with them every chance he got.

He is survived by his “Lovey,” Mary Maras of Canfield; children, Bree (Drew) Melow of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Jake Governor of Warren, Kaylee (Nate) Zimmet of Mecca and Ali (Ethan) Lane of Zelienople, Pa.; his sister, Deborah Monolakis of Mecca; grandchildren, Landon, Greyson and Easton Zimmet, and Ivan and Dimitri Melow; and a niece, Amanda Monolakis of Mecca. He will also be missed by his great-nieces and -nephews, Steven, Jonathan, Addison, Jordan, Alaina and Aliyah.

Buzz was preceded in death by a nephew, Steven (Kristina) Monolakis.

Buzz had a strong work ethic, but always found time to have a good time. Always remember to work hard, play hard and put your community first.

Per his wishes, a celebration of Buzz’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Mecca Township Park, checks payable to Mecca Twp., PO Box 567, Cortland, OH 44410, or Hospice of the Valley, 9803 Sharrott Road, Youngstown, OH 44514.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Woods-Rettig Funeral Home, Leetonia.

Family and friends may view this obituary and send condolences at www.familycareservices.com.

(special notice)