John G. Urdiales

John G. "Keke" "Pancho" Urdiales, 71 years, went into the arms of Jesus on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2013, after a long illness that he fought with great dignity and courage.

Born in Monterrey, Mexico, he resided in Springfield Township the majority of his life. John proudly served in the U.S. Army and retired from F.W. Albrecht Co. after 35 years of service. He was a member of Middlebury Sportsman’s Club and was a Union Steward with Local #880. John was an avid fisherman, bowler, Cleveland Brown’s Fan and enjoyed and supported all Ohio sports teams. He was the first Springfield Twp. Girls Softball Coach to lead his team to the State Championship in 1977. John’s family lovingly called him “Keke” and to his fellow co-workers, he was “Pancho”. He was well known for his unselfish love and tremendous sense of humor.

Preceded in death by his parents, Adolfo and Maria; brothers, Rudolpho, Dario and Anthony; sisters, Benita, Ortencia and Cecilia; John is survived by his beloved “Patty Poo”, his wife of 46 wonderful and exciting years, Patsy; sons, Norman John (Shellee) and Adolph Anthony (Michele); daughter, Deborah Lynn “Baby Girl”(Brian) Noble; grandchildren, John, Megan, Taylor, Drew, Cory, Adolfo, Gabriella and Hannah; brother, Adolph; sister, Alicia; many loving and devoted nieces and nephews; special friends, Tom, “Little Bro” Jack, Judy and Cliff; and cat, Sammy.

Friends may call Wednesday, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Rd., Akron, Ohio 44312 and one hour prior to the service on Thursday, from 10 to 11 a.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday, 11 a.m., at the funeral home with Pastor Gilbert Goodwin officiating. Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery where the Mogadore VFW Post #8487 will conduct military rites.