Obituary of Donald A. Distel

Donald Distel ,71, of Cuyahoga Falls, passed away peacefully September 1, with his family by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer. Dobe was a member of the United States Air Force from 1957-1961. After leaving the Air Force Dobe had a 50 year career as a tool and die maker at various shops in the Akron area. He was also an active member of the Northampton United Methodist Church. Don was a devout family man. When he wasn't helping others, he enjoyed vacationing with his family at Folly Beach South Carolina. Don's last wish and desire was to enjoy one last vacation in Folly with his girls, which he fulfilled. Dobe was preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Hazel. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Sandra; sister, Carrol Forbes of Hurst Texas; brother, James Distel of Cuyahoga Falls; children, Dawn Lynch, Kim Casenhiser (Ed) and Tammi Dannemiller (Mike) all of Cuyahoga Falls. He is "Papa" and "Best Friend" to six grandchildren, Mandi, Michael, Alex, Jake, Meghan, Erin, and is also survived by his loyal dog, Lexi. The family would like to extend thanks to Summa Hospice and the Medical University of South Carolina. The family will receive friends Tuesday, September 6, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home McGowan-Reid & Santos Chapel, 247 Stow Ave. (one block North of Portage Trail at 3rd St.) in Cuyahoga Falls. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, September 7 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Pastor Keith McLaughlin officiating. Interment at Northlawn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either Summa Hospice or the Greater Akron Humane Society. (Anthony Funeral Homes, 330-928-1313, www.anthonyfh.com)