Joseph F. Hathaway, Jr.

Joseph Franklin Hathaway, Jr. passed away at his home in St. Augustine, FL. at the age of 94. He was born and raised in Akron, Ohio. In 1944 at the age of 17 he obtained his parents’ permission to leave North High School in Akron to enlist in the US Navy. He served as a Sonarman aboard the USS Trathen, DD 530, in the Pacific Theatre, and subsequently at the US Naval base in Adak, Alaska. After the war he returned to Akron, enrolling at Kent State University. In 1949 he married Joanne K. Rowe. In 1952 he went to work for Home Centers, Inc. as a salesman. He subsequently was promoted to Store Manager, Sales Manager, Vice President, President, and retired as Chairman and CEO in 1987. He had a long retirement with Joanne in Florida where they enjoyed sun, sand, golfing and boating.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Joanne, who was at his side when he passed; sister Marilyn Mealhow (Ron); children Gail Anne Oestreicher (Lloyd), Dawn Hathaway Davis and John Joseph Hathaway (Lori) as well as 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sister, Jean Witter (Larry).

Private family services were held.

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

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