William P. Dente

After many courageous battles with his health, including surviving cancer twice, William Paul Dente, 81, succumbed to chronic Ogilvie’s Syndrome on February 4, 2020. Bill was born on September 25, 1938 in Akron, Ohio to Alfonse and Margaret Dente and grew up in Akron with his three older brothers, and sister. He graduated from St. Vincent – St. Mary’s High School in May, 1956.

After high school, he attended Compton College in Compton, California and went on to work at the Summit County Courthouse. He met Lulanelle Adair there, and married her on October 1, 1960. He served in the Army Reserves for two years. He and Lulanelle settled in Cuyahoga Falls, and in 1964 welcomed the birth of their only child, Mary Kay. Bill soon changed career paths and became an expert tire salesman for General Tire, then Montgomery Ward, and finally Walmart, where he retired.

Sports played a big part in Bill’s life. He enjoyed handball, and played in tournaments for more than twenty years at the YMCA (Riverfront) in Cuyahoga Falls. An avid baseball fan, Bill meticulously scored the games of his favorite team, the Cleveland Indians, and was able to play softball for many years. Football was also a passion of his, eagerly cheering for the Ohio State Buckeyes, and the Cleveland Browns.

Bill loved all animals, especially his pets, and owned more than twelve rescued dogs and cats over his lifetime.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Lulanelle, and all his siblings Thomas, John, Richard and Helen. He is survived by his cherished daughter, Mary Kay, his adored sister-in-law Cheryl Kay Buie (Dan) and many loving nieces and nephews. Bill will also be sadly missed by his beloved dog and constant companion, Tuxedo “Tuxie”, and by his one-of-a-kind senior rescue cat, Wyatt.

Bill and his family would like to express gratitude to the Cuyahoga Falls paramedics, the staff at Western Reserve Hospital, the staff at Bath Creek Estates Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Dr. C. Dolshlagen, for his sincere concern and medical expertise over the years.

Per Bill’s wishes there will be no service. But he would love to be remembered through donations to your favorite animal charity. Bill’s heart could be broken by any cruelty to an animal, as he donated to countless animal charities over the years.