Alben W. Keaton

 Alben W. Keaton, age 64, passed away September 13, 2013 after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Jacksonville, Fla., he had been an area resident most of his life. Alben retired from Highway Asphalt/Kenmore Construction, and was a proud member of Laborer’s Union Local 894 for 30 years. An outdoor enthusiast, he loved farming and animals, and was an avid gardener. Alben was also a member of the Farm Bureau.

Preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Opal (Marie); daughters, Valerie and Veronica; grandson, Caleb; and brother, Billy; he is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Sandra (Snyder); children, Dennis (Yvonne), Rick (Nan), Brian (Alina), A.J. (Sarah), Alicia (Ed), and Benny; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, Alvin (Pat); sisters, Elden (Gerald), Patricia (Conrad); many nieces, nephews and friends; and his beloved dog, Chance. Special thanks to Nancy and Ruth of Hospice of Visiting Nurse Service for their care of Alben.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, 1 p.m. at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Road, Akron, Ohio 44312 with Rev. Richard W. Ferris officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Akron. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, and also from 12 noon until service time Tuesday. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society, 525 North Broad Street, Canfield, OH 44406.