Houston Dean Wise

Houston Dean Wise, age 80, affectionately known to all as “Bo”, passed away suddenly on Friday, November 21, 2014 at Akron City Hospital in Akron, OH. Bo was born in Jewell Ridge, VA on July 21, 1934 to the late Roscoe Paul and Mary Alice Atwell Wise. Bo was very proud of his military service during the post WWII recovery period. He was stationed with the 41st Infantry Battalion in Uhm, Germany for two years. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Army, Bo moved to Akron and began a long career with The Goodyear Tire and Rubber that lasted 35 years. He worked in the Production Division and was commended for developing innovations that improved efficiency on the production lines. Bo also served numerous terms as a union representative for the United Rubber Workers, Local #2. Bo was the starting pitcher for his high school team, The Richlands Blue Tornados; and continued his love of the game throughout his life. He played baseball and softball and was on many winning teams in the Goodyear Intramural Leagues. He loved seeing “The Big Red Machine” in the 1976 World Series. He was also a dedicated OSU football fan and had found memories of attending several Rose Bowl games. Bo and Mary raised Kerry Blue terriers for show and they traveled extensively on vacations. He was especially close to Mary’s sister, Margaret “Marg”; her brother, Ira “Bud”, and their families. In his later years, Bo loved Celtic music, walks with his sweetheart, Kathleen; and their dog Dudley, trips to Niagara Falls and Gettysburg, and visiting his hometown of Jewell Ridge. Bo was a member of the Oak Hill Presbyterian Church, a community that gave him joy and comfort. In addition to his parents, Bo was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Mary Lytle Wise; and his siblings, Gaynelle and Winfred. He is survived by Three Cousins: Joann Looney Pauline Coleman Justine Smith His loving companion of six years, Kathleen Whaley Several nieces and nephews also survive along with a host of family and friends. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 at Clinch Valley Memorial Cemetery in Richlands, VA with Rev. Doug Northern officiating. Bo’s final resting place will be in Richlands, Virginia where he will be buried alongside his grandparents, parents and sister. Members of the Casey-Shortt VFW Post #9640 will conduct military graveside rites. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made the Summit County Humane Society. Hurst-Scott Funeral Home in Richlands, Virginia is in charge of arrangements and those wishing to express sympathy online may do so at www.hurstscottfuneralhomes.com.

Houston Dean Wise

July 21, 1934 - November 21, 2014