Donald Joseph Belair

Donald J. Belair passed away on July 13, 2014. He was born in Akron on December 13, 1924,
and lived in this area all of his life. Don was preceded in death by: his parents, Joseph W. and Anna (Devereux), his brothers Lawrence and David, his sisters Delores Lott and
Betty Ann Belair. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Elizabeth Jane (Barr) Belair; sons, Joseph, Paul (Joanie), and Edward (Laurie). In addition, Don is survived by nine grandchildren: Kristina, Brannon, Jaimee, Sarah, Jacob, Joseph and Anna Mary Belair and step-grandchildren Kimberly and Kelsey Heinen. Don also leaves behind sisters Rojean Nagy and Marie Morris and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Don was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Stow, VFW Post 4738, DAV, and American Legion. Don spent his youth in Firestone Park and attended St. Paul’s Church, serving a term as President of Perish Council. He attended St. Paul’s Grade School and Garfield High School, until he volunteered for induction into the United States Army in March of 1943. While in the Army, he served as a medical technician during World War II, and during the Battle of the Bulge served as a combat medic. Upon his return from the war, in 1946, he enlisted for three years in the U.S. Army Reserves. He received his high school diploma in 1946 and attended the University of Akron where he met his wife Elizabeth (Betty).

Don spent his entire working career in the toy and hobby business. First, with Rempel Manufacturing where he served on the Board of Directors. Later, Don moved to Sanford Wiener Company as a partner in the wholesale toy business. Don ended his working career at C and P Sales, retiring in 1988.

Upon retirement, Don and Betty moved from Firestone Park to Carlton House in Akron, then Silver Lake Towers, in Stow. Don spent his retirement years enjoying reading, movies, learning the computer, and especially enjoying his family. Don spent his life being a man with an incredible work ethic, patience, leadership and grace.

He will be greatly missed by all who loved him dearly and those whose lives he touched.

A Memorial Mass for Don has taken place. If desired, donations in memory of Don can be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, 3179 Kent Rd. Stow, OH 44224 or Evant, 4500 Hudson Dr. Stow, OH 44224

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