David P. Bolanz

David P. Bolanz, 82, of Akron, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2022. He was born on January 23, 1940 in Rootstown, Ohio. He served in the Ohio Army National Guard. Dave worked as a mechanical engineer designing tire testing equipment over the years.

Dave was a devout member of St. Matthew, where he served as an usher for many years. He was also a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus.

He enjoyed sports, especially The Ohio State and Notre Dame Football. He was an avid sailor who loved spending his summers at Atwood Lake where he was lovingly known as "Captain Dave." Everyone at the dock knew he was present by the polka music blaring out of his boat, Wind Dancer. Dave was known for fluently reciting lines from the movie, "Captain Ron," and for his love of Jimmy Buffet music.

Dave will be deeply missed by his sons, Jeffrey (Judith) Bolanz, and David Bolanz (Janelle Clemons); grandchildren, Jaqueline, Holly (Adam), Jeffrey, Andrew, Matthew, and Simon; and great-grandson, Wade.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Grace Bolanz; brothers, Jerry, Walter, Dick, and Tom Bolanz; and sisters, Joan Wittensoldner, Jane McFarland, and Ann Blubaugh.

Visitation will take place on Thursday November 3, 2022 from 6-8pm at Newcomer 131 N. Canton Rd, Akron. A memorial mass will follow on Friday at 10am at St. Matthew Church 2580 Berne St., Akron. Inurnment to follow at Hillside Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dave's memory to St. Jude at www.stjude.org

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