Cory Staats

Cory Joseph Staats, 36 years, passed away Thursday December 14, 2017. August 21, 1981, Larry and Kathy Staats welcomed their son, Cory Joseph Staats. Cory's life was one of great inspiration, trying obstacles, and battles fought as a true warrior and Super Hero. He believed that we were put on this Earth to respect and love one another, protect our planet and our future, and hoped for peace and harmony for all. Cory was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in 1986. For years, Cory defied the odds and overcame each set back with unwavering strength and bravery without complaint. He fought valiantly and loved fiercely. Cory had the most beautiful blue eyes, an infectious smile, and laugh. Cory loved anime, JPop, KPop, and Asian cultures. He longed to visit Japan and Singapore. Cory's love for food was apparent as he watched hours of Food Network and The Chew daily. He enjoyed Brad's meals and Bloody Mary's. Cory also was an avid gamer and thrashed on WoW with his sister, Amy, when he was able. He loved comic books, drawing, Snoopy, and most of all, Life. Cory had an incredible bond with his mother, Kathy Staats. He found great humor in political discussions and watching movies with his father, Larry Staats. He loved being entertained by his niece and nephew, Lily and Brady. Cory and Amy, shared their love of comic books and one day hoped to write and illustrate a series based on Cory's Super Powers. Cory loved going to restaurants and watching comedy shows with Stacy and Brad. He lived a humble and pure life hoping one day to fall in love and have a family of his own. However, God had other plans. Cory made us better people. Cory is survived by his devoted parents; Larry Staats and Kathy Staats, sisters Amy Staats and Stacy Hughes, brother-in-law, Brad Hughes, Brady and Lily Hughes, John and Joanne Inama, Gregg and Shelley Inama and Leona Staats; cousins and friends; JeMaul, Kevin, Ben, Andy, Tom, Jesse and Geoff. Cory has now been reunited with his loving Grandparents; Richard and Jane Inama, Harold and Josephine Staats, his Uncle Michael, and many friends and family members who have been waiting for him to arrive to heaven. We would like to thank Cory's incredible MD Muscle Team doctors, nurses, and staff at Cleveland Metro, Jackie Becker, MDA, those who cared for him Scott and Perry, and nurses Isha, Meesook, Matia, Shanez, Marie, Mary, Keonna, and Star). You have been angels on Earth for our family. We would also like to thank the Hospice of the Western Reserve, especially Stacy and Jackie, Lone Star Fraternity, and Michael Marias. Thank you to everyone who has kept Cory and our family in your prayers throughout his journey. His family will never forget the outpouring of love and support. We know he is walking, running, eating, breathing, talking, and soaking up all that heaven has to offer. His life will never be forgotten and his spirit will live on forever. He was the best person we have had the honor to love and know. Cory, your war is over, but your legend begins ... We love you. The family will receive friends Friday, December 29th at St. Hilary Church 2750 W. Market St, Fairlawn, OH 44333 from 1:30-3:30pm with a Mass of Christian Burial following at 4pm. Immediately following mass, there will be a gathering in the spiritual center where you can enjoy Cory's favorite food, Swenson's. In lieu of flowers, people may make a donation to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, The World Wildlife Federation, or make a donation to the Akron Snow Angels.