Lionel Stephens

CUYAHOGA FALLS - Lionel D. Stephens, 81, died peacefully on December 8, 2006 following a short illness.
Preceded in death by his parents Sivey and Gula (Somerville) Stephens, he is survived by his wife of 40 years, Martha; children, Susan (Ralph) Buchanan, Linda Groom, Pam (Fred) Krompass, Craig Kelly; sister, Wilma Stalnaker; grandkids, Craig (Sarah) Kelly, Jr., Jennifer (Travis) Thatcher, Chris (fianc?e Jessica) Kelly, Kelly (Vince) D'Auria, Christen Kelly, Leann Krompass, Toni Rubino, Michael Rubino, Allison Groom, Bridget Buchanan; great grandkids, Ashley Largent, Cameron Kelly, Aaliyah McKinnis, Haley Myers and many nieces and nephews.
He was born in Akron, Ohio on March 1, 1925 and became the youngest licensed pilot in the Akron Air Club when he was 16. He graduated from Hower Vocational High School in 1943 and served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, stationed in Adak, Alaska. After military service, he received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University and a masters degree in education from the University of Colorado, then taught school in Colorado for several years. He operated Stephens Travel Service from 1967-1987 and guided bus tours to many places in the eastern US and Canada. We have so many wonderful memories of our travel adventures with him. From 1987 to the present, he owned Stephens Pest Control and greatly enjoyed taking care of all his customers. He loved to travel, flea markets, history, watches, clocks, trains, planes and animals - especially his cat Lenin. He was truly a unique person and will be greatly missed by his family, friends and customers.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Shoemaker and all the hospice nurses and doctors at Cuyahoga Falls General Hospital, especially Keri, for their kindness.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family memorial service will take place at a later date. Anyone who wishes may contribute to Hospice of Summa, 444 N. Main St., PO Box 2090 Akron, OH 44398-6153 or the Humane Society of Greater Akron, 1904 Quick Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264 in Lionel's memory.