Jerald H. "Jerry" Meissner

Jerald H. “Jerry” Meissner, age 78, passed away on January 13, 2015.

Born in Dover, Ohio on November 8, 1936, he lived in the Akron area most of his life. Jerry attended New Philadelphia High School, served in the U.S. Air Force, and retired from Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company after 40 years. During his years at Goodyear, Jerry also earned income in various other occupations, including T.V. repair, small engine repair, auto body and tool sharpening. He worked tirelessly to support Leigh and their nine children, often working two to three jobs. His selfless generosity, kind, gentle spirit, love for family and amazing sense of humor will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.

Preceded in death by his wife, Thelma Leigh Meissner; sister, Connie Maher; and infant twin brothers, Ronald and Donald Meissner, Jerry is survived by children, Michael (Anne) Griggs, Candy Avery, Lisa (Terry) Wittman, Mark (Mara) Griggs, Dana, Barry and Keely Meissner, Julie Schaffer and Jill Croft (Thom); 16 grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; sisters, Janice (Bob) Yannayon and Margie (Gary) Jentes; half-sister, Patty Meissner Chughy; sisters-in-law, Mary (Larry) Scholton and Johnny Trotter; brother-in-law, Douglas Raspberry; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jerry was a member of the Kelby Range and also an avid member and former vice president of the Chippewa Rifle Club, where he was an expert benchrest shooter, winning many awards at the super shoot and where he continues to hold records. He leaves behind many close friends, particularly from Chippewa Rifle Club. We would like to extend a very special thank-you to Pastor Fred Wallis and also to the Akron Summa Hospice and Palliative Care Team for their special kindness and loving care.

The family will receive friends Sunday, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Road (Route 91), Akron, Ohio 44312, where funeral services will follow at 4 p.m. with Pastor Fred Wallis officiating. Burial will take place at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Haven of Rest Ministries, P.O. Box 547, Akron, OH 44309-0547.