Class Notes

Dr. Thomas Lee Barnes, of Harrisburg, PA, and formerly of Vienna, Virginia departed this life on September 19, 2019 with complications from Parkinson's Disease. Tom was born on October 19, 1938 in Alliance, Ohio to the late Rev. Virgil and Marjorie Barnes. He earned his bachelor's degree from Muskingum College, master's and doctoral degrees from Penn State University. In 1972, Tom accepted the Dean of Students Services position at fledgling Wytheville Community College in southwest Virginia and contributed to the growth of students and the community for 27 fulfilling years. As a citizen sailor Navy reservist for 30 years, he rose to the rank of Captain as he commanded seven reserve units. Throughout his life, Tom dedicated his time to the church choir, Bible study, American Red Cross, Senior Softball, Basketball, and Lions International. Ever sports minded, Tom believed in physical fitness and competitive athletics. Throughout his life he remained true to his Presbyterian and Appalachian roots as a humble, spiritual, and faithful man. Tom married the love of his life, Bernadette Black, in 1996 and they co-parented their six children from previous marriages. His beloved four children and their families are Andy Barnes and his wife Tammy and grandsons Beckham and Brodan of Charlotte, NC; Jenni Barnes Tulli and her husband Mark and grandchildren Gabriel and Alden of Gainesville, FL; Matthew Barnes of NC and Brian Barnes of Charlotte, NC. His two stepchildren are Allison Curtin Kaster and her husband Bryon and grandson Richard of Harrisburg, PA and Kevin Curtin and his wife Dominique and grandsons Noah and Dean of South Riding, VA. Tom also leaves one brother, David Barnes of Rochester, MI and his dear family as well as a multitude of close cousins and friends. 

Patricia Ann (Denton) Miller died July 30, 2019 in Cuyahoga Falls.

Pat was born in Akron, Ohio on September 1, 1930 to Joseph and Emma Denton and resided in the Akron area most of her life. She graduated from North High School in 1948 and Muskingum College in 1952. Her graduate work was continued at Kent State University.

She began her music teaching career in the Tallmadge schools, and retired in 1991 from the Cuyahoga Falls school system with 27 years of service. She also directed church choirs in Barberton and Cuyahoga Falls for many years.

Pat was a member of The Chapel in Green, where she enjoyed Bible studies. She also loved sewing, reading, and playing golf.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Norman B. Miller, the love of her life. Pat will be missed by daughters; Valerie Bonacci (Fred) of Stow, Ohio, and Vicki Clark (Doug) of Tyler, Texas; her grandchildren; Kyle Bonacci, Colleen Fairhurst (Grant), Micah Clark (Mary), and Chelsea Clark; and her brother Joseph A. Denton (Jeanne) of Munroe Falls, Ohio.

Sue Lloyd, age 81, of Northfield, passed away, Monday, December 31, at the Northfield Hospital.

Susan was born on November 29, 1937 in Canton, Ohio, the daughter of John William and Geraldine Easterman Wright. Sue Wright and Tim Lloyd both attended the same high school, graduating in 1955. Susan continued her studies receiving her Bachelor of Arts, Summa Cum Laude degree from Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio with a major in English and German. She later received her Masters Degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Minnesota.

She was united in marriage to Tim Lloyd on December 19, 1959 in Canton. The couple spent three years in Germany while Tim was in the service. While there, Susan taught soldiers in preparation to receive their GED’s.

In 1964, the couple moved to Northfield. Susan was one of the first teachers of English at the Constance Bultman Wilson Center of Education and Psychiatry in Faribault, Minnesota. Later, she received her master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Minnesota. Sue’s dual interest in English and psychology led to her profession teaching emotionally disturbed youth as well as teenagers with learning problems. Later she continued this work throughout the metro area. It was a position that was challenging, but that she enjoyed and took to her heart. Earlier, given her writing ability, she had worked at the Northfield News as a proof reader and editor.

Sue also volunteered her time at several community organizations. She was a member of ARTSPLAN 06: a year-long study to make recommendations to the City Council, arts organizations and to the Northfield schools regarding arts and culture. The City Council then created the Arts and Culture Commission. She also became part of the Northfield Planning Commission as well as the Rice County Mental Health Commission in Faribault.

For many years Sue and Tim and their family have enjoyed their Lake Superior retreat at Grand Portage, MN. Susan was an avid reader and

was a member of two Northfield reading groups while still spending much time reading from her own choices. She later became interested in studying genealogy, an interest which led her to discover relatives in an abandoned cemetery near Faribault, MN. Once she discovered that one of Tim’s “third-great” grandparents was buried near Northfield, she began the project of restoring the Prairieville Cemetery in Faribault. For the last ten years she worked on the restoration, working with county officials, writing grants, and obtained tax-exempt status for Friends of Old Prairieville Cemetery.

Her friends have often described Sue’s true beauty as her deep friendship and caring for so many others. They, too, cared for friends, but not with the same depth and loving that came from Sue and remained forever. Few others could achieve the quality of this love.

She is survived by her husband Tim, of Northfield; a son Tim Jr (Kara) of Northfield; a daughter-in-law Becky Lloyd of Clyde, NC; two granddaughters Austin and Jesse; and a brother Tom (Martha) Wright of Roebling, NJ. She was preceded in death by a son Stephen (2014) and her parents.

Timothy "Tim" Bruce Haning, loving father, caring brother, devoted son and friend, joined his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 after a brave and strong fight against his illness, saying proudly, "I did it!"

Tim Haning was born on November 25, 1955 to Sandi A. Haning and Charles Bruce Haning (deceased). Tim is survived by his son, Kyle B. (Mandy) Haning of Ashland, OH. Brother to Tom (Mindy) Haning (deceased), Tammy (Charles) Tolley, Trisha (Tom-deceased) (Haning) Kyer, Tracy (Rich) Bowlen all of Lancaster, OH. Tim is also survived by 9 nieces and nephews and 4 great nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Lancaster High School and then Muskingum University, Tim went on to live an adventurous life. The countless friends and memories developed over his 63 years is a testament to the love and friendship he shared with all he felt blessed to know. Other than the incredible love he had for his son, Kyle, Tim's mindful and dedicated work for gardening demonstrated the passion he had for the Greenhouse. In addition to playing basketball, Tim was an avid tennis player. The tennis court was a place where he bonded with his brother and sisters. Tim would often share stories of the glory days playing in the county tournament, and in recent weeks, while claiming his memory couldn't recall his losses, he readily named everyone he beat.

The family is deeply grateful for the continuous outpouring of love, prayers, and support. We also wish to share an incredibly heartfelt appreciation to the Pickering House. In the compassion, dedication and loving care shown to Tim during his last few days by all the staff, it was clear God truly placed angels by his side. We simply cannot thank the Pickering House enough for that. We invite you to join us in remembrance of a life well lived, a father deeply loved and greatly missed, a family member never to be forgotten and friend who cared about each of us with his whole heart.

Sept. 12, 1938 - May 9, 2019 Anita Gregory died of Parkinsons Disease at the age of 80 at the British Home in Sierra Madre. Born in England, she moved to Pasadena with her family in 1947. After receiving her M.L.S. from U.C. Berkeley, she first worked as a children's librarian at the San Diego and Pasadena Public Libraries. As an adult reference librarian she was employed by Occidenal College, Immaculate Heart College and the Los Angeles Public Library. Anita will be remembered for her wit, kindness, and genuine interest in others. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 22 at the Altadena Community Church, 943 E. Altadena Dr., Altadena.

Ann Colvin Decherd, age 91, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2019. Ann was born, Margaret Ann Colvin on July 25,1928 in New Eagle, PA., the daughter of Enoch C. and Margaret Hayden Colvin. A 1946 graduate of Bentleyville High School in Pennsylvania, and a 1950 graduate of Muskingum College in New Concord, OH. Upon graduation, Ann received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education. While at Muskingum, she also studied music and was a member of the Kianu Club. Ann was chair for her graduating class for the 40, 45th, 50th, and 55th class reunions.

She started her teaching career in Newark, OH. After marrying in 1953, she moved and taught in Plain City, OH. After moving to Zanesville in 1964, Ann became a Health and Phys Ed teacher at Grover Cleveland, Junior High.
Ann was the church organist for the Presbyterian Church in Plain City then after moving to Zanesville she became the church organist for Central Trinity United Methodist Church. Ann was also a member of the Central Presbyterian Church, Zanesville Women's Club, Ohio Retired Teachers, Thursday Music Club, she was a Docent Volunteer for the Zanesville Museum of Art and past president of Zanesville Concert Association. Ann loved traveling the world, reading and music.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Don Decherd, and sister Nancy Colvin Craven. Ann is survived by son, Doug Decherd (Joyce) and daughter, Kaye Decherd Miller (Mark), 6 grandchildren , many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Ann will be laid to rest in the cemetery of her ancestors in Monongahela, Pennsylvania.

Linda Beth Buchler (nee Esmond) died on May 19, 2019, one day shy of her 84th birthday. As a young girl, she moved from New York City’s Brooklyn borough to Cleveland with her parents, Roseline and Jack Esmond. She attended Brush High School, Muskingum College (graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in history, 1957), and Western Reserve University (graduated with a Master of Arts degree in history, 1963).

She taught history at Cleveland Heights High School, married Fred Buchler in 1961, and left teaching to work in Fred’s CPA practice in 1966, when her son was born.

Linda was an avid traveler, anglophile, bibliophile, historian, bridge player, dog lover and a quietly prolific author whose works she never shared during her lifetime. A lively conversationalist, she never wanted for friends.

She is survived by her son, Michael; his wife, Nancy Rogers; her first cousins, Marilyn Fisher and Barbara Amper; and her nieces, Marcy (Mike) Carrier and Robin (Jeffrey) Mayers. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred.

Before retiring to Florida in 2004, both were active members of Temple Emanu El.

Their ashes will be interred at 11 a.m. Aug. 7 at Hillcrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Cleveland Museum of Art or to the League of Women Voters.

Margaret L. ”Pegge” (Morehead) Bradley, 89, of Cambridge, passed away peacefully on July 21 , 2019 surrounded by her loving family while under the care of Genesis Hospice at the Morrison House. She was born on May 12, 1930 in Zanesville Ohio to Charles and Helen Morehead.

She was a member of the Concordia Eastern Star District 16 #637, and held every chair in the organization during her lengthy membership of 65 years ranging from Worthy Matron multiple times to Deputy Grand Matron of the State of Ohio. Pegge taught at the New Concord High School and John Glenn High School for over 33 years, primarily the subjects Phys Ed, Health, and French. During her time as an educator she was Leaders Club Advisor and the Cheerleading Advisor. She then volunteered at the High School for over twenty years after retirement. She was also an East Muskingum Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee in 1993; she served as a member of the East Muskingum Alumni Hall of Fame Selection Committee. She was a longtime member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, where she was an organist. Her time as an organist was lengthy, and she only stopped when her arthritis became too extreme for her to continue. She even played for the church services on the Sunday she was married. Pegge also donated her time to the Bethesda/Genesis Healthcare System as a volunteer and sat on the Genesis Foundation Board.

Margaret is survived by her children, Randall L. (Amy) Bradley, Ginny (John) Barker; her two grandchildren, Sara M. (Dan) Bielek and Matthew R. (Emily) Bradley; her two great-grandchildren, Jones and Miller Bielek.

In addition to her parents, Margaret is preceded in death by her husband, Gary R. Bradley, who passed away on August 16th 2018, as well as her brother, Robert Charles Morehead.

Arthur Bowman (Bo) Budinger III, 79, of Westford, MA, died Sunday, July 14, 2019, in Lowell General Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born April 2, 1940 in Wilkes-Barre, PA, a son of Arthur Bowman Budinger Jr. and Emily Pickett Budinger.

Bo, a graduate of Muskingum College, New Concord, Ohio, was a retired research physicist and held many patents in the lighting and television industry. He was last employed with Osram Sylvania.

Bo was a lifelong amateur radio operator (WA1QYM). He was a founding member and first president of the Police Amateur Radio Team (PART) of Westford, as well as an ARRL Affiliated Club Coordinator for the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL section.

He shared a keen interest in railroading and model trains with his family and was a collector since childhood of vintage model trains and villages.

He also enjoyed hiking the White Mountains and was an active member of Kiwanis of Westford.

He was a member and trustee of the United Methodist Church of Westford.

He is survived by his wife Carol Cover Budinger, two sons: Bruce (Cheryl-Lynn) of Groton, and Brian of Westford; a daughter Brenda Weschke (Thomas) living in Surrey, UK; two grandchildren Katherine and Bruce Jr.; and a brother David (Jennifer) of Washington, PA.

Deceased, in addition to his parents are two brothers, Mark and Christopher Budinger.

A private interment service was held Wednesday, July 17, 2019 at Pine Grove cemetery in Westford. A memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bo's memory to the American Cancer Society.

Skelton, Charles "Bo" Chelsea, Michigan Age 72, died Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born October 4, 1946 in Oberlin, Ohio, the son of Charles Leroy & Mary Margaret (Kanagy) Skelton. A multi-sport athlete in Wellington, Ohio, Bo went on to play football at Muskingum College where he graduated with a degree in economics in 1968. While at Muskingum, Bo was president of the Mace club. He was a Mace for life and still of great joy to him was an annual Mace golf outing in West Virginia.. Although born and raised in Ohio, Bo moved his family to Michigan and became an avid U of M football fan, attending games as a season ticket holder for 40 years. Bo was a longstanding member of the Chelsea Athletic Boosters and organized the annual golf outing fundraiser, which was renamed in his honor several years ago and had it's 28th annual outing this year. Chuck, as he was known professionally, was Senior Principal in charge of Leisure Time and Real Estate Advisory Services consulting practices in Laventhol & Horwath's Michigan office. He headed this group from 1983 to 1990. He then started Hospitality Advisors Consulting Group and U.S. Realty Consultants which he was President of from 1991-2019. Chuck served as Chairman of the Board of the Ann Arbor Area Convention and Visitors Bureau on five different occasions and has served on its board of directors for 20 of the past 35 years. Additionally, he served on the board of directors of the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce for seven years in the 1980's. Continuing his public service, Chuck served for six years on the board of directors of Chelsea Community Hospital serving two of those years as Chairman in the 1990's. He was particularly involved in numerous hotel and conference center development projects and has conducted seminars on the topic. Chuck developed the Chelsea Comfort Inn and Village Conference Center in Chelsea, Michigan and continues to be an owner. He published "The Lodging Commentary"- a bi- annual publication on the health of the Michigan lodging industry regarded as the resource for the industry in Michigan. Chuck was a member of Michigan Travel and Tourism Association, Vice Chair of the Washtenaw County Accommodations Ordinance Commission, and Board of Directors of Chelsea First. He is survived by his 3 sons, Bryndon (Holly) Skelton, Colby (Charlotte) Skelton, Rourke Skelton; his partner, Kathy Gunderson, and her sons, Gavin & Ben Gunderson; 6 grandchildren,Schuler, Brier, Sommer, Bo, Mia, and Caden; sister Sandy (Stuart Wills) Piepho; nephews, Matt and Ted; as well as numerous extended family members. 

Edana (Dina) C. Bruder, 88, died peacefully on June 18th after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was born on July 21, 1930, in Akron, Ohio. She graduated from Kenmore High School in Akron and received her Bachelor’s degree from Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio. She married the love of her life, James (Jim) Bruder, and together they raised three children. A loving mother and dedicated housewife, she was devoted to her family and her faith. After retirement, Dina and Jim spent many enjoyable years traveling throughout the United States in their RV.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim, in 2006 and her parents, Gladys and Roscoe Leach. She is survived by her son, Mark (Beverly) of San Diego, Calif.; daughter, Jana (David) McClish of Akron; son, John (Suzanne) of Doylestown; and grandchildren, Adam, Sean, Andrew, Kaitlin, Matthew, and Aaron.

Gene Ford, 66, of Cambridge passed away Friday (June 28, 2019) at OSU James Cancer Center with his family near.

He was born August 4, 1952 in Midvale and was the son of Margaret (Steve) Ford of Cambridge and the late Donald E. Ford.

Gene was a retired basketball coach

He is survived by three sons, Ryan (Rebecca) Ford of Cambridge, Geno (Traci) Ford of Long Island, NY, and Dustin (Marcie) Ford of Stowe; one brother Mark Ford of Cambridge; seven grandchildren, Darin, Abbie, David, Max, Bryson, Nolan, Colin Ford; several close friends…you know who you are.

Henry Dure Bullock of Palo Alto passed unexpectedly in his sleep on July 9, 2019. He lived his life to the fullest, building a successful commercial real estate company, prioritizing his family and friends, traveling the world, and always ready to celebrate with a glass of wine.

Henry grew up in Akron, Ohio. He graduated cum laude from Muskingum University, where he received a BA in Philosophy and Economics and served as a trustee until his passing. He also received a doctorate in humane letters from Muskingum and delivered the commencement speech to the graduating class of 2016. He received his MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University, and then moved to California to pursue a career in commercial real estate.

He started his career in San Francisco with Wells Fargo Bank, where he met the mother of his children, Terri. He directed the Northern California commercial mortgage banking operations of Security Pacific Corporation, and worked his way up to become a Managing Partner at the Shidler Group.

In 1994, Henry founded Menlo Equities along with his partner, Rick Holmstrom. Henry focused on strategic planning, known for his ability to distill macroeconomic data into useful insights about commercial real estate investment opportunities. Their first investment was 20525 Mariani Drive, Apple’s original headquarters. Since then, they have acquired or developed 116 properties with total value of approximately $4.5 billion. In addition to boasting impressive returns, Henry worked hard to create a rigorous work environment. Henry shaped his employees’ investment skills through his high expectations, probing questions and dedication to thorough quantitative analyses.

Despite his intense commitment to his career, he knew that there are more important things in life. He prioritized his family, teaching his kids to focus on the big decisions that determine one’s happiness in life, and to build the life they wanted for themselves, and not wait for that life to manifest without effort. He lived up to this, spending his time in a way that made him happy. He loved a nice glass of Bordeaux, and was known for his Christmas-party eggnog and air-guitar dance moves. He would call often when his family or friends were thinking through a big decision, to lend an ear, or offer his advice. He loved his family and his friends deeply. He loved to talk, and to tell stories to connect with people.

He will be missed and remembered by his family, friends, and the real estate community. He is survived by his companion Sonia, son Benjamin (Christina), daughter Christine (Brian), grandson Brooks, mother Mary, siblings Page, Sarah, and Madelene, and the mother of his children, Terri.

The Muskingum University community was saddened to learn of the recent passing of University champion and alumnus Henry D. Bullock, who died at the age of 63 on July 9, 2019.

During his commencement speech to Muskingum University’s class of 2016, Mr. Bullock advised students, “Once you’ve made a life decision, don’t look back. Go with passion. Attack it with a positive attitude, and if you do that, then that major decision is likely to work out.” It is obvious Mr. Bullock followed this philosophy in his life and career.

Mr. Bullock graduated cum laude from Muskingum University in the Class of 1977, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and Economics, where he was deeply influenced by Professors Joseph B. Elkins and Herbert F. Thomson. He also received a Master of Business Administration degree from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management of Northwestern University.

Mr. Bullock applied his interest in economics and business to the world of commercial real estate in Silicon Valley and beyond. After working for Wells Fargo Bank’s Real Estate Industries Group and serving as a Managing Partner at the Shidler Group, Mr. Bullock co-founded Menlo Equities, which invests in corporate office campuses in high-demand, technology-driven markets. His extensive commercial real estate and finance acumen led to highly successful real estate developments and investments in many innovation hub markets throughout the U.S.

Heavily involved already as a student, Mr. Bullock was on the staff of the University’s newspaper, Black and Magenta, and contributed to First Circle, Muskingum’s annual magazine dedicated to literature and the arts. He was also a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, the national leadership honor society Omicron Delta, and international honor society Phi Sigma Tau. Additionally, he was a member of the University’s golf team, a passion that continued throughout his lifetime.

A committed and generous supporter of Muskingum University and its students, Mr. Bullock was a member of the Muskingum University Board of Trustees since 2004, and, before this role, served on the University’s Alumni Council. In addition, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in 2016.

“While this is a somber day for Muskingum University, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the life of an extraordinary alumnus, entrepreneur and friend,” said Muskingum University President Susan S. Hasseler. “Mr. Bullock’s death is a significant loss to all who knew him. We extend our deepest sympathies to Henry’s family and friends.”

Ann L. Stockum died peacefully in her home in Lancaster, Ohio on Saturday, July 13, 2019 while in the care of her son, Bob. Ann was born in New Concord, Ohio on March 19, 1926.

She attended New Concord schools, graduating in 1943. She earned her B.A. Degree from Muskingum College, where she was a member of the F.A.D. Social Club and worked in the Dean of Women's Office. The January before her graduation she married Don L. Stockum of New Concord. They shared a beautiful marriage for 72 years until Don passed away December 18, 2017.

Ann was an English and Secretarial Studies teacher for many years in many locations in Ohio, Johnstown, Muskingum County Schools, Brookside High School and Muskingum Area Technical College, retiring in 1984. Ann enjoyed reading, walking, swimming, flower gardening and family gatherings. She was a charter member of the New Concord Mothers Club. She had a great love of music, a beautiful voice and played the piano by ear. She was a faithful member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in New Concord and active in each church community, where she lived. In 2012, Ann became a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster.

While teaching, she and Don (Spike) raised three children who survive her, Sally Kraly (John) of Marengo, Ohio, David and Robert Stockum of Lancaster, Ohio; Ann has a sister, Sandy Rozelle (David) and brother, Robert Given, still living, as well as many loving nephews, nieces; sisters-in-law; seven grandchildren, Jennifer By (Carl), Carrie Freed (David), Laura Lee (Bryan), Michael Stockum (Kelly), Ben Stockum, Billy Stockum and Betsy Tacderan (Jayme); Ann received much joy from her eight great-grandchildren, Madison, Reese, Sydney, Morgan, Emerson, Madalynn, Kolten, and Kynlee.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Louise Hillyer Given Bay and Waldo O. Given and her sisters, Jeanne Daily (Orville) and Sue Bay Campbell (Charles).

Per her wishes a cremation will take place, followed by a service to celebrate Ann's life, which will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, 222 N. Broad Street, Lancaster on Monday, August 12, 2019 at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster or to Fairhope Hospice, 282 Sells Rd., Lancaster, OH 43130. Farus Funeral Home of New Concord is caring for the family. A burial of ashes will take place at a later date for the immediate family.

WOOSTER – Faye A. Umbach, 91, of Wooster passed away on Monday, January 21, 2019 at Danbury Woods of Wooster.

She was born November 1, 1927 in New Concord, Ohio, the daughter of Harry F. and Hattie Blake Addis.  She married Louis Andrew Umbach on August 26, 1950.  He survives.

Faye was a homemaker and had previously taught school in Youngstown, Austintown and Westmont School Districts and had been a teacher’s aide in the Wooster City Schools.   She was a member of the Wooster United Methodist Church where she was a member of the Deborah Circle, the Thursday Book Club and Wooster Community Hospital Auxiliary.

Surviving in addition to her husband are her children; Timothy (Linda) Umbach of San Francisco, Susan Umbach of Columbus, Joyce Umbach of Marshall, Arkansas, David (Kelly) Umbach of Florence, Alabama and Daniel (Kate) Umbach of Seattle and 4 grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Geraldine, Delmar, Geneva, Marjorie and Victor.

Robert Stanley Stokes, 88, of Ashland passed away, Friday evening, July 5, 2019 in his home.

He was born on June 8, 1931 in Frazeysburg, OH to the late Ivan and Eva (nee Smith) Stokes. After graduating from Frazeysburg High School, Bob attended Muskingum College where he earned his undergraduate degree and Kent State University where he earned his Master’s Degree. He was an All-American football player while attending Muskingum and was then drafted into the NFL by the Chicago Cardinals. He coached at both Summerfield and Greentown High Schools.

Bob served as the head basketball coach and head football coach at Muskingum (College) University. He also acted as the head basketball coach, assistant football coach and athletic director at Ashland (College) University, where he founded and was director of the Sports Science Department. Both Muskingum College and Ashland University inducted Bob into their Sports Halls of Fame. In addition, Bob was inducted into the Ashland County Sports Hall of Fame

As a member of the professional sports organization OHPERD, he served as state treasurer and trustee of the board. The organization honored him with a meritorious and life membership award. He also ran the Northwest District Basketball Tournaments for more than 25 years.

Bob was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church where he served on the Board of Deacons. He is fondly remembered by the fellow members of his church as well as all people who knew him, as the “Hugger” because he greeted everyone warmly with a smile and hug.

Family was so important to Bob and he loved and supported them throughout his life. They remember how his face lit up whenever he was around his family. Along with his children, he shared a home in Chautauqua, NY for decades where many fond memories were created.

On June 19, 1954 he married the former Joyce Cosby with whom he celebrated his 65th wedding anniversary last month. He is survived by Joyce and his children Steve Stokes of Perrysville, Debbie (Dan) McNaull of Ashland and Chris Stokes of Wooster. In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren and great grandchildren Christy (Scott) Conrath, Kelly (Dale) Swearingen, Grant Stokes, Mollie Stokes, Olivia Stokes, Luke Stokes, Owen Conrath and Clara Conrath. Bob is also survived by his beloved sister Joanne Bumpus, brother Don Stokes; a sister-in-law, Audrey Stokes; brother and sister-in-law, Virgil and Inge Cosby; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by sisters Kay Frazier, Janice Riley, Jean Oravis, Betty Leas, and brothers Jack Stokes and Ivan Stokes Jr.

Bob received Hospice care at his home from Pathways Hospice. His family is incredibly grateful for their loving care of him during the final four months of his life.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 13, 2019 at 11 a.m. in the First Presbyterian Church, 320 Church Street, Ashland, OH 44805 with Reverend Mike Parker officiating. Friends may call, Friday, July 12, 2019 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and also 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church. Handicap accessible parking will be available on Church Street and access to the church will be available through the office doors. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Robert and Joyce Stokes Family Scholarship Fund c/o Ashland County Community Foundation, 300 College Avenue Ashland, Ohio 44805, Robert and Joyce Stokes Fund for First Presbyterian Church c/o Ashland County Community Foundation, 300 College Avenue Ashland, Ohio 44805, Pathways Hospice, 1171 East Main Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805.

Online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com. 

Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Butler, PA.  May 21, 2019.

Milford, OH.  September 18, 2019.

Lexington, KY. October 25, 2018.

Westerville, OH. May 3, 2019.

May 7,2019.

Spouse: Boyd A Smith '53

Cambridge, OH. April 22, 2019.

Son: William Scott Roller '83

Late Wife: Kathleen Denny Roller '52

Sebring, OH. April 23, 2019.

Preceded in death by sisters: Anne Marie Benedict '38 & Betty Miraben '37, as well as her husband Ralph L. Reid '40.  Survived by her son John Norman Reid '67 and daughter Martha Louise Reid '72.

Washington, DC. March 28, 2019.

Sebring, Ohio.  April 23, 2019.

Wooster, OH. April 4, 2019.

Huron, OH. April 7, 2019.

Lucasville, OH. April 4, 2019.

Pittsburgh, PA.  April 6, 2019.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert McMillan '41.

Grand Rapids, Michigan.  April 9, 2019.

Medina, OH. March 25, 2019.

Charlotte, NC. March 27, 20119.

He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Jean Gouyd '50.

New Philadelphia,OH.  March 22, 2019.

Bradenton, FL. March 27, 2019.

Hudson, OH. March 31, 2019.

Houston, TX. February 21, 2019.

Columbus, OH. March 24, 2019.

Spouse: Sylvia Kinney Brunswick '69.

Greenville, PA. March 18, 2019.

Canton, OH. March 24, 2019.