Dennis K. Sullivan

Dennis K. Sullivan, 76, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away June 5th after valiantly fighting a brief illness.

He will be lovingly remembered and forever missed by his daughter Meghan (Bryan Jaketic) of Lakewood, son Dennis (Erin Rogers) of New York, sisters Karen (Bill) Huber and Janice Peckens, and dear family and friends.

He was preceded in death by Linda, his eternal soulmate and wife of 51 years, parents Elvin Sullivan and Eleanor Ashton, stepfather Charles Ashton, grandparents Grace and Emory Stahl, brother Larry Sullivan, sister Nannetta (Nan) Harris, half-brother David Shue, and nephews Billy Huber and B.J. Ranier.

Born in Barberton in 1945, Dennis grew up in Green, graduated from Green High School, and earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Akron. A member of Sigma Pi Fraternity, he worked to put himself through school and served his country as an Army reservist.

Dennis devoted 37 years to the University of Akron as a Professor of Manufacturing Engineering Technology. He cared deeply about student success and he fought to ensure that students got what they paid for. An active member of the UA family, he served on faculty advisory committees and as an academic advisor. A lifelong Zip, he continued to support the University and its students through financial contributions and by establishing scholarships in Marketing and Music.

A devoted husband and father, Dennis put his family above all else. He taught his kids the value of education and hard work and was the first person they called with a question or problem. He always knew what to do. He was intelligent, curious, and well-read. Dennis was not one to pass time idly, and never left a job unfinished. He was funny and quick-witted - always ready with a zinger. He loved cars, animals, music, and Cleveland sports. A great storyteller, he was still full of tales his kids had yet to hear.

Dennis will be remembered as a man of integrity whose family and friends looked to him for wisdom and guidance. His strong, assured presence and generous spirit will be greatly missed. His loved ones will strive to move forward in accordance with the lessons he has imparted.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 17th from 12:30 - 2:30 at Billow’s Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron OH 44333. Interment to follow at Chestnut Hill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Linda and Denny’s memories to the Linda L. Sullivan Memorial Grant, ℅ The CJD Foundation, or The University of Akron Scholarship Fund.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N Miller Road  Akron, OH 44333.

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