John R. Kissel Sr., 81, of Akron, Ohio entered into God's Kingdom on August 19, 2023. He was born in Randolph, Ohio on April 7, 1942, to the late Ruth (nee Wiley) and Raymond Kissel.
John was a lifetime resident of Akron's North Hill neighborhood, graduating from North High School where he met his loving wife Rosemary. They loved each other dearly sharing 60 years of marriage. John leaves a legacy of generosity, hard work, and love of God and others. He was a devout Catholic who attended Visitation of Mary Parish and worked at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. for over 36 years. He also attended the University of Akron and owned Kissel Parking Lot and Maintenance, providing jobs for young men in the neighborhood.
Whether supporting multiple Eagle Scout projects for Troop 180, teaching his sons about gardening and craftmanship skills, or simply repairing family and friends' cars, he loved using his talents in carpentry, welding, gardening, and mechanics to help his family, friends, and neighbors. An avid reader who valued education, he was proud to see his daughter complete her degree from his alma mater. John enjoyed fast cars and motorcycles and often took his sons and daughter to motorcycle and car races during their youth. John created wonderful memories during family vacations and coached his daughter's softball team. He was a doting grandpa and cherished being involved with his grandsons' educational, scouting, and sporting events and teaching them his craftsmanship and outdoor skills.
John was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Janis Marshall and brothers James Kissel and Joseph Kissel.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and son and will be dearly missed by his wife Rosemary Kissel; his sons John R. Kissel Jr. and Michael Kissel; daughter Andrea (John) Conti, grandsons Zachary Conti and Anthony Conti; siblings Jane (Sonny) Moore and Joni (Dan) Barry and many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, August 28, 2023 at Newcomer, Akron Chapel, 131 N. Canton Rd. The Funeral Mass will be take place at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 29 at Visitation of Mary Parish, 55 Broad St., Akron. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remember John through a donation to a charity of your choice.
To share a memory of John or to leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.