Rudolph J Rolenz

Rudolph J. Rolenz, 91, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, December 16, 2015.

Rudy was born Friday, April 4, 1924 to Rudolph and Justina Rolenz in Akron, Ohio. His family were members of St. Bernard's Catholic Church, where he attended St. Bernard's Elementary School for eight years and graduated from East High School in 1942. He worked at the Borden's Milk Company, then The General Tire Rubber Company. In 1942-45 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy LCI unit (Landing Craft Infantry), World War II, in the Pacific War Zone. After leaving the service, he returned to work at The General Tire and Rubber Company and retired from the Tire Development Department with 43 years of service.

Rudy was a member of the Visitation of Mary (Annunciation Church) a Holy Name Usher, the Kenmore Italian Civic Club, Patterson Park Senior Club, and LCI National Association.

In 2005, Rudy was awarded the "Outstanding Older Adult" by the Akron Senior Citizens Commission. He was known as the "Handyman of Goodyear Heights Neighborhood", where he helped many neighbors and widows. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and a gentle man who was always helping others. He never knew anyone that wasn't a friend.

In 2015 a book was published titled "We Had a Job To Do" with a chapter titled "The Luzon Campaign, the Landing Craft Infantry and the Service of Gunner's mate, Rudolph J. Rolenz, U.S. Navy."

He was preceded in death by parents; son, John; brothers, Robert, Jerry, Emil and wife Betty, and Steve.

Rudy is survived by his loving wife, Doris of 68 ½ years; sons, Richard and David (Joanna); grandchildren, Elyse, Haley, Eric and Alaina Rolenz; sister-in-law Alma Rolenz; daughter-in-law, Lori Rolenz; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Michael Gedeon, VA and Summa doctors, staff, and Summa Home Care and Hospice for their care.

Visitation will be 9:30 until 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at the church.

Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 16, 2015 at Visitation of Mary Parish (Annunciation), 87 Broad Street, Akron with Rev. Father Jonathan Zingales officiating.

Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to your favorite charity.