Gov. Mike DeWine has ordered that flags will be flown at half-staff at all public buildings and grounds through Dec. 15 to honor former Canton Mayor and Stark County Commissioner Thomas Bernabei.
Bernabei died Dec. 11 at Aultman Hospital following complications from surgery. He was 79.
Bernabei led Canton through several initiatives, including construction of Centennial Plaza downtown and lending support to housing, workforce development, after-school programs and social services.
Calling hours are 3 to 6 p.m. Dec. 14 in the McKinley Room at Canton Memorial Civic Center.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Dec. 15, at Christ the Servant Parish, 833 39th St. NW. The retired Rev. Monsignor Lewis Gaetano will officiate. The service will end at North Lawn Cemetery.
Why are flags flown at half-staff?
The American flag flies at half-staff when the country or a state is in mourning, according to USA.gov. Flags can be ordered to fly at half-staff by the president, a state governor or the mayor of the District of Columbia.
In most cases, flying the flag at half-staff marks a significant death, such as a government official or military member; a national tragedy or a national day of remembrance, such as Patriot Day or Memorial Day.
What is the difference between half-staff and half-mast?
Half-staff refers to flags on land. Flags are flown at half-mast on nautical vessels, such as a naval ship. But the purpose is the same for both.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Ohio governor orders flags at half-staff to honor former Canton mayor
Reporting by Canton Repository / The Repository
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