William L. “Bill” Krizay, 97

William L. “Bill” Krizay, 97, passed away September 12, 2024, peacefully at home. He
was born March 17, 1927 in Barberton, raised in Norton and resided in Doylestown the
last 47 years. Growing up during the depression, his dad taught him to play the
accordion using a plum box with the keys drawn on it, spending many a day having jam
sessions together. He became a talented musician, able to play accordion, piano, banjo,
and trumpet, forming his own band “The Polka Five”. One of his greatest passions was
playing his button box accordion, with his trademark cigar in his mouth, as a member of
the Barberton Button Box Club, having several songs recorded. After graduating from
Norton high school in 1945, he joined the U.S. Navy and during his time in the service,
was selected to play on the U.S. Navy baseball team as a first baseman.
After the Navy, he studied business and Industrial Engineering at the University of Akron
and Hammel Business College, culminating in a career as an Industrial Engineer at
Seiberling, Bearfoot Corp., and Akro Corporation.
He enjoyed playing in golf leagues and bowling for many years in leagues at the Slovene
Center. He was an avid sports fan, especially of the Cleveland Indians, Browns and Ohio
State football.
He was a member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 70 year member of S.N.P.J.
Lodge, K.S.K.J. 110, Domovina Lodge, and Knights of Columbus.
He married the love of his life, Dolores in 1951, at Sacred Heart Church in Barberton,
raising three children. They were happily married for 61 years, spending countless hours
on the dance floor, traveling, walking and shopping (patiently waiting outside the
dressing rooms and letting her buy whatever she wanted). He was a loving father,
actively involved in his children’s schoolwork and activities. He made his family a priority
and made sure each child had a college education. He was the best dad anyone could
ask for. We were both lucky and blessed to have him in our lives.
Preceded in death by his wife, Dolores; parents, Louis and Anna Krizay; sister, Mildred;
and brothers, Stanley and Lotto. Bill will be deeply missed by his children: Denise
(Richard) Lay; Ken (Ann) Krizay, Dennis (Lynn) Krizay; grandchildren, Graig (Kristen)
Krizay and Julie (Daniel) Hardiman.
The family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to: Carol Greer who so wonderfully
helped the family take care of him the last 5 yrs., during his struggle with Alzheimer’s.
Grace Hospice, especially his aide Stephanie and his nurse, Nancy, from Harmony
Cares. Parishioners of Prince of Peace for their numerous cards over the years,
especially Ava and Adelyn, for the many beautiful pictures they colored for him. Larry
Lauter, whose weekly visits brought him great spiritual comfort. Barbara Leksan, who
thoughtfully sent numerous cards and well wishes to him.
He lived a full and happy life bringing joy to many. Life is short. Spend time and care for
your loved ones.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at
Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 1263 Shannon Ave., Norton, Fr. Robert Jackson
celebrant. Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery. Calling hours One Hour Prior to the mass AT
THE CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Humane Society’s
of Wayne or Summit County or the Alzheimer’s Association.