Houston "Bo" Dean Wise

Houston Dean Wise, affectionately known to all as "Bo", passed away suddenly on Friday, November 21st at Akron City Hospital.

Bo was born in Jewell Ridge, Virginia on July 21, 1934 to Roscoe Paul and Mary Alice (nee Atwell) Wise. Bo is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Gaynelle and Winfred; and his wife of 44 years, Mary (nee Lytle). He is survived by three cousins, Joann Looney, Pauline Coleman and Justine Smith; many nieces and nephews; and his loving companion of six years, Kathleen Whaley.

Bo was very proud of his military service during the post-World War II recovery period. He was stationed with the 41st Infantry Battalion in Uhm, Germany for two years. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Army, Bo moved to Akron and began a long career with The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company that lasted 35 years. He worked in the Production Division and was commended for developing innovations that improved efficiency on the production lines. Bo also served numerous terms as a union representative for the United Rubber Workers, Local #2.

Bo was the starting pitcher for his high school baseball team, the Richlands Tornados, and continued his love of the game throughout his life. He played baseball and softball and was on many winning teams in the Goodyear Intramural leagues. He loved seeing "The Big Red Machine" in the 1976 World Series. He was also a dedicated OSU football fan and had fond memories of attending several Rose Bowl games.

Bo and Mary raised Kerry Blue terriers for show and they traveled extensively on vacations. He was especially close to Mary's sister, Margaret "Marg", her brother, Ira "Bud", and their dog, Dudley, trips to Niagara Falls and Gettysburg, and visiting his hometown of Jewell Ridge. Bo was a member of the Oak Hill Presbyterian Church, a community that gave him joy and comfort.

Calling hours at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Road, Akron, Ohio from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26th with a funeral service immediately following, officiated by Pastor Brian Nutt. Bo's final resting place will be in Richlands, Virginia where he will be buried alongside his grandparents, parents and sister. There will be a graveside service at Clinch Valley Cemetery on December 2, at 11 a.m., with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Summit County Humane Society.