Obituary of Paul Joseph Speight

Paul Speight, who we're privileged to call Dad and Grandpa, was called home to Heaven by our Lord on December 17th 2015 and is now happily and forever reunited with his beloved wife Millie. Dad was extremely proud of his Irish heritage. His strength of body, mind, and spirit were unequaled and his influence and caring guidance taught us valuable life lessons. Dad didn't push you to succeed, rather, he expected that you push yourself. Above all was his dedication and love for his family. He introduced us to wonderful vacations, especially at the beach, and took every opportunity to travel extensively with Mom after retiring from Kent State University in 1985. He was a proud veteran of WWII, having served in the U.S. Army Air Corps at Pearl Harbor, and was the recipient of numerous medals and commendations. He entertained us with stories from the war, and with his knowledge of computers. He began his career immediately after returning from the war and participated in the evolution from room sized computers to his iPad which he still used to store pictures of his family. In the mid 1980's, Dad accurately predicted a potential problem that would later be referred to as 'Y2K'. Dad was a member of St Paul's church, the Knights of Columbus, the Lions Club, and the Holy Name Society. He was preceded by his parents Edward and Cecelia, brothers Raymond and Donald, and is survived by brother Edward. Left to celebrate his wonderful life are six loving children, daughters Patty (Bill), Jeanne (Bob), Cindy (Dave), Susan (Joe), sons Bob (Theresa) and Don (Rene), 21 Grandchildren, and 32 great Grandchildren who will enjoy and cherish many great memories. While we will miss him dearly, particularly his warm smile and musical laugh, we take comfort in knowing that Mom's introducing him to the other Angels in Heaven, and the party's just getting started! A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:30 am at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St. Akron and will be followed immediately by a dinner at St. Paul Parish Activity Center. Paul's remains will be placed in the columbarium at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery with Military Honors on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Samuel's Life Journey at http so://www.gofundme.com/jldju0 or a charity of your choice. (Anthony, Akron, 330-724-1281, anthonyfh.com)