John R. Preston

John R. Preston, 89, of Akron passed away Monday, May 30, 2016 at National Church Residences (Traditions). 

John was born March 24, 1927, in Akron, Ohio to the late Bazil and Veronica (Gluzak) Przeniczny (Presinski). He proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and retired from Akron Standard Mold in 1989 after 33 years. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by best friend and companion, Tillie Tillman; her son, Gerald Tillman; his brother, Philip Preston; sisters, Mary Sarpolis and Celia Kupris. He is survived by his son, Robert (Jolly) Preston of Green, Ohio; daughter, Rita Preston (Jerry) of Uniontown, Ohio; granddaughter, Cynthia Preston; extended family of Shirley (Emery) Serdinak; Joseph (Jean) Tillman and family, Sandy Tillman and family; brothers, Michael (Fran) Preston of Greenfield, Wisconsin; Pete (Mary Ann) Preston of Port St. Lucie, Florida; sister, Mildred Poole of Akron; and many nieces, nephews and friends. 

He was a member of St. Matthew Catholic Church and known to be a lovable, compassionate easy going man making friends everywhere he went. The family would like to give special thanks to his friends and staff of National Church Residences (Traditions) for their loving care. 

Family and friends may call Thursday, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Road, Akron, Ohio 44312. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, 11:30 a.m. at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Ellet, 2580 Berne Street, Akron, Ohio 44312, with Father Michael Williamson presiding. Procession will form at the funeral home. Entombment will follow at Hillside Memorial Park with military rites conducted by Firestone VFW Post 3383. Although flowers are appreciated, the family suggests memorial contributions be forwarded to St. Matthew Catholic Church.