Obituary of Byron Henry Werner

For 97 years, Byron Henry Werner loved his family and valued his independence fiercely. March 30, 2015, Byron passed away in his own home. He was born in Wanatah, Indiana September 19, 1917. He met his wife-to-be while attending Purdue University. After graduating with a degree in chemical engineering, Byron and his bride moved to Akron, Ohio. There he worked for Firestone for 38 years as a research chemist. Shortly after moving to Akron, Byron and his wife, Viola, started their family and had four children in five and a half years. Besides spending time with his family, Byron had many interests. He loved gardening and enjoyed raising vegetables for his friends and family. Every summer he looked forward to camping vacations with his wife and children. Byron loved music and made sure his children all learned to play the piano and a band instrument. For many years he was active at the Akron Camera Club. Concordia Lutheran Church, where he taught Sunday School and served on the Church Council, was always an important part of his life. Byron instilled his love of God, of nature and of music in his children. His strong work ethic was something he passed on to those around him. Byron is survived by his wife of 73 years, Viola and four children: Barry (Fran), Lesley (Charlie), Sarah (Art), Jeanne (Jim), and also an unofficially adopted daughter, Olive (Chris). He had eight grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Monday, April 6, at Concordia Lutheran Church 724 Sumner St. Akron, OH 44311 from 9:30 to 11:00 am. A funeral service will be held at the church with Rev. Robert W. Tauscher, Jr. officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Concordia Lutheran Church. Byron will be remembered for his dedication to his wife, his devotion to his family and his unending generosity. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. (Anthony Funeral Homes, AKRON, 330.724.1281, anthonyfh.com)