Carla Jo Westlake

Carla Jo Westlake, 50, of Dover, was rewarded by God with a “can-do” body on Wednesday October 31, 2012 in the Community Hospice House at New Philadelphia following a 6 year battle with cancer. Born February 12, 1962 in Steubenville she was a daughter of Jean Sheets of Toronto, Ohio and the late Ron Sheets.

The disease may have taken her ability to get around and eat, but it never took away her desire to love others and it never took away her ability to smile. Throughout her life and illness Carla had an incredible capacity to love. She was known for her homemade cookies and beautiful crocheted baby blankets and afghans she gave to family, friends, nurses and those who cared for her during her illness. She used her illness as a way to bring others into the community of believers reminding her visitors in her last days not to mourn her death but to celebrate her life. Carla retired from the Dover City Schools where she worked as a cook and as a special needs transportation driver.

Preceding her in death are her father Ron Sheets and mother in law Elaine Westlake.

Carla is survived by her husband of 24 years Paul and her two sons Zachary and Nathan, both serving with the U.S. Navy; her mother Jean Sheets of Toronto; a brother Ron (Kasey) Sheets of Toronto; father in law Richard Westlake of Toronto; brother in law Keith (Doreen) Westlake; niece Brianna and nephews Brian, Steven and Jacob. A friend to many, Carla will be missed.

The Westlake family would like to thank Dr. Jim Schmotzer, the Morning Star Cancer Center, Aultman Hospital 6^th Floor South staff and Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County for the tremendous care and support throughout her illness.

At Carla’s request cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday November 3, 2012 at 5:00 PM in New Pointe Community Church at 3950 S.R. 39 NW Dover. Pastor Dwight Mason will officiate and private graveside services will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends at the church from 3 PM until time of services at 5 PM. Smith-Varns Funeral Home in Sugarcreek is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be made to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County at 716 Commercial Ave. S.W. New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663. For those unable to attend please visit the funeral home’s web site to share a memory and sign the guest register.

Smith-Varns
Sugarcreek
330-852-2141