Obituary of Carl E. Hughes

Carl Edwin Hughes 1928-2016 Carl Edwin Hughes, 88, was a true symbol of 'America's Greatest Generation.' Following the surrender of Japan in WWII, he served in the U.S. Army as an Ambulance Driver for the Occupation Forces. He enlisted as soon as he was eligible, and returned home with a deep respect for the people of Japan and was honored to have served his country. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 64 years, Ruth, and loving father of six children. His family was his life, and he cared and sacrificed for them with every fiber of his being. As an employee of the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company for 44 years, he worked all the hours he could get in order to make sure the family needs were met. Yet, he always made time for his family, to toss a ball, teach his children to ride a bike, or go to a Musical Knights' parade whenever possible. He had an engaging and ornery sense of humor that came out in stories and practical jokes. He always enjoyed sitting at the dinner table with his family, and on occasion "going to the track to watch the ponies" with his dear friend, Art. In retirement, he and Ruth were members of the Owls Club Bowling league, where they both enjoyed the friendship of the other members. His pleasures in life were simple. His happiest moments were those when he and Ruth were surrounded by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren on holidays, birthdays and other special occasions. His strong work ethic, devotion to family, ornery sense of humor and contentment in the simple things of life became his legacy. "Papa's" last few years involved a momentous struggle with Alzheimer's, yet there were always glimpses of the man so dearly loved by his family. As the battle continued, it was a comfort to know that when it was over, he would be at home with his Savior and Lord, Jesus, and be reunited with Ruth, his parents, and all the loved ones who had preceded him in death. This glorious reunion took place the morning of August 20, 2016, as Carl left his home here to ascend to his heavenly home. Carl was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruth, parents Earl and Gladys Hughes, brothers Paul and Bert Hughes, grandson Andrew Cole, and great-grandson Mason Cole. He leaves behind to cherish his memory children David (Christine) Hughes, Charlene (Don) Cole, Cindy (Bob Cooper) Hughes, Jerry (Linda) Hughes, Christine (Robert) Capanna, Carl (Elissa) Hughes II.; grandchildren Sonya Ralston, Christopher Hughes, Lisa Durante, Timothy Cole, Jeffrey Cole, Daniel Hughes, Jenni Hughes, Robert Capanna III, Marcie Dickey, Nicholas Capanna, Nathaniel Capanna, and Lindsey Hughes, Ashleigh Hughes and Carl (CJ) Hughes III.; 14 great-grandchildren; brothers Robert (Darlene) Hughes, Earl (Sylvia) Hughes, sister-in-law Joanne Hughes, and brother-in-law Bill Nitz. The family wishes to thank the staff of Summa Hospice at Home, as well as his compassionate and devoted 'team' of caregivers: Glenda Webster, Peggy Tatton, Tricia Harland, Joi Davis, Dee Mohn, and the countless number of friends whose love and prayers have strengthened and sustained us through this journey with Dad. The family will receive friends Thursday 5 to 8 p.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home KUCKO-ANTHONY-KERTESZ CHAPEL, 1990 S. Main St., Akron. Funeral services will be held Friday, 12 p.m. (Noon) at the Akron Springfield Assembly of God, 1551 Canton Road, Akron with additional receiving from 11 a.m. until services. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association 23215 Commerce Park #300, Beachwood, OH 44122 or to Summa Hospice at Home 1077 Gorge Blvd. Akron, OH 44310 (Anthony Funeral Homes, AKRON, 330-724-1281, anthonyfh.com)