David Lee Mortimer

David Lee Mortimer, 74, longtime resident of Rootstown passed away peacefully and suddenly on January 31, 2014. Born on January 6, 1940, in Akron, he was the son of David Mortimer and Ruth Foster Mortimer who both precede him in death. He graduated from Tallmadge High School in 1958 and worked 33 years for Goodyear, retiring 15 years ago. Dave lived in the area all of his life.

In Lujan's on Tallmadge Circle he had the good fortune of meeting the love of his life and his best friend for the next 51 years, Ardie (Collins), who worked there as a waitress. She was attracted to him and his Red Hot Rod. He loved coming to see her and eating banana cream pie.

Dave leaves behind a daughter, Jody Somoskey (Mike) of Sanford, Florida; son, Davie (Brandi) of Rootstown and 5 grandchildren, Macy Somoskey, Shyanne, Zachery, Maranda and Dakota Mortimer. He is also survived by his brother, Don (Marie) of Wooster and their children and grandchildren.

When Dave's first grandchild (Shyanne) was born it was an absolute thrill to finally become a grandpa. He was so proud of her career choice of nuclear medicine.

Dave loved his life on the farm. After coming home from Goodyear he would hit the fields many times until dark. He was an avid fisherman. He and son (Davie) spent many times together at the lakes. Dave shared his love of fishing with anyone who was game and liked to fish at the pond on his home property. He especially loved when his grandchildren (Macy, Zachery, Maranda, and Dakota) would come to fish along with the Morrison grandchildren. All of the family cherish the memories of these fishing adventures.

Dave loved watching his granddaughter, Macy, play in her golf tournaments. It excited him to know how much she loved the game. He was proud to see her grow up into a fine young lady. Dave surely loved all of his grandchildren and enjoyed all of the time spent with each of them. Simply stated, when Dave was with his grandchildren, he was smiling.

Dave and Ardie loved getting together with his classmates of '58 once a month. He looked forward to hanging out with his "Good Buddy Ray". Dave enjoyed belonging to the Tree City Wood Carvers. He created many pieces that will be treasured by loved ones and special friends for many years to come. Dave will be missed by many and was loved by all.

Calling hours will be held 5-7 PM Tuesday, February 4th at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home in Kent and Wednesday, February 5th from 10-11 AM followed by funeral services to be held 11:00 AM. Burial will be held at Restland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association Akron Area Chapter, 4500 Rockside Road, Suite 440, Independence, OH 44131 or American Lung Association, 6100 Rockside Woods Blvd., Suite 260, Independence, OH 44131.