Gary J. Schrader

NORTON -- Gary J. Schrader, 59, passed away January 8, 2010 after a courageous fight with lung cancer. Gary was welcomed into heaven by his father, Roy, his mother-in-law, Jean Cassady and aunt, Betty. Gary was born in 1950 to Roy and Ann Schrader and had lived all his life in the Barberton and Norton area where he graduated from Archbishop Hoban High School. He worked for Asplundh Tree Company until starting as a laborer for the City of Barberton Street Dept. in 1975. He was very active in the AFSCME Local 265 where he also served as president for several years until he became the superintendent of the street department where he retired from in 2009. Gary loved his job and co-workers but was very dedicated to his family. His children were his special gifts from God. He was an active member at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Gary enjoyed many an evening out to dinner with his friends and family. He was such an avid vacationer that he was given the nickname "Punta Cana King." His most cherished moments were at the white sandy beaches with his family and a cerveza in hand. Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Judy; children, Melissa and Gregory; his mother, Ann; sister, Karen (Todd) Guist and their children, Tyler, Kevin, and Katherine; brothers and sisters-in-law, John, Jennifer, Jill (Brian), Jim (Susan), JoEllen (Darryl), Jake (Amy); as well as many more nieces and nephews. It has been my privilege to have walked through life with you Gary. I will love you always. Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, January 12, 2010, 10 a.m. at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 204-6th St. NW, Barberton. Calling Hours Monday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the SILVA-HOSTETLER FUNERAL HOME, 1199Wooster Rd. West, Barberton. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Augustine Endowment Trust Fund or the American Cancer Society.