Arthur F. Kenepp, age 95, passed away on February 29, 2016.
Art was a lifelong resident of the Ellet-Springfield area. Graduating from Ellet High School in 1938, he attended Akron University and Kent State University. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Air Corps. He served in the Air Force Reserve for 28 years, attaining the rank of major, retiring in 1981.
Art established his sign business in 1946. He skillfully painted exterior and interior signs, and lettered trucks. He enjoyed lettering many soap box derby racers. He began working with Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company art department as an independent contractor in the early 60’s. He built and installed signs, installed stores, and decorated for the Charity Ball. After retiring in the early 80’s, he enjoyed travel and golf. Slowed by a heart attack in 2005, he enjoyed challenge golf, grandchildren, family gatherings, the internet, and creative “tinkering” with projects to enhance his life. Sustained by physicians, friends and family, he lived independently until shortly before his passing. He was a 33rd degree Mason, a member of Joppa Lodge. He maintained membership with IUPAT (International Union of Painters and Allied Trade).
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Pearl Kenepp; his wife, Marjorie (Bryant); and siblings, Bob, Gene, Elmer, Dilla and Al. He is survived by daughter, Jill Klainer (David); and sons, Steven (Kathleen) and Kevin (Maryesther); grandchildren, Jonathan, Mary and Tyler (Jessie) Kenepp, Amy and Ben Klainer; great granddaughter, Anna Zoe Kenepp; and sisters, Catherine Spencer, Betty Baughman (Dave), Barbara Higgins, Alice Funk and Mary Schumacher.
Friends and family will be received Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Road (Route 91), Akron (Ellet), Ohio 44312. Funeral service will be Saturday, 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Lynn Thompson Bryant officiating. Burial will follow at Hillside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Edwin Shaw Challenge Golf Course, 1596 Flickinger Road, Akron, OH 44312.
(Hopkins Lawver, AKRON, 330-733-6271)