Deanna Ridenour

Deanna L. Ridenour, 80, of Sandusky, passed away unexpectedly on March 15, 2026. Born on February 1, 1946, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Sandusky to the late Clifford H. and Wilma (Smith) McVetta, she was a proud graduate of Perkins High School, part of the first class to attend all four years there. She continued her education at Capitol University in Bexley, Ohio, and the Sandusky School of Practical Nursing.

Deanna devoted her career to healthcare, serving at Providence Hospital, The Commons of Providence, and later with Firelands and Provider Services following the merger. Passionate about education and community outreach, she taught Super Sitters and American Heart Association CPR courses, and served as a certified CPR and Red Cross CPR and First Aid instructor. She also managed her family’s business, T-Drive In.

A woman of deep faith, Deanna was actively involved at St. Paul Lutheran Church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher, church council member, FLAME representative, and coordinator of the monthly Welcome Table community meal. She participated in many outreach efforts, including the Conestoga Project and blood drives, and was also involved with Zion Lutheran Church. She was a longtime member of the Car Coddlers Club of Ohio, serving as secretary and newsletter editor for 18 years and receiving the Meritorious Service Award. Her commitment to youth was evident through her roles as an Erie Shores Girl Scout advisor, 4-H advisor for Erie Belles and Erie VIPs, and member of the Erie County Extension Advisory Board. She was also a member of the American Business Women’s Association, Eagles No. 444 Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, and IABC. In 2017, she received the Erie County Education Foundation’s Outstanding Service After School Program Award.

Deanna is survived by her daughters, Shannon (Mark) Blevins and Shayri Lawson; grandchildren Shayne (Ashley) Blevins, Shaun (Emma Kastor) Blevins, Madilynn Lawson, and Logan Lawson; great-grandchildren; her brother, Dr. Rod McVetta; brother-in-law, Michael Ridenour; and many nieces, relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 59 years, David Ridenour, in February 2026; her brother, Kevin McVetta; aunt Clara Rarey; uncle Richard Rarey; and her beloved dog, Benji.