Albert L. Ploenes

Albert “Patch” “Professor” Ploenes, age 84, of Akron, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 25, 2021 from complications of Parkinson’s Disease.

He was born February 4, 1936, in Akron, where he remained for the entirety of his life. Patch was a 1953 Buchtel graduate and earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the University of Akron. He was an inducted member of Omicron Delta Kappa and a member of Lonestar Fraternity where he served one term as President and also served as Alumni Board President. Patch was employed 43 years with Akron Public Schools. He worked 10 years as a teacher at Roswell Kent Junior High, where he also coached the boys track team, four years as a teacher at Buchtel High School, and served several years as Akron Public School Administrator.

Albert’s faith was very important to him. He was a lifelong member of Fairlawn West United Church of Christ where he served as a Deacon and moderator. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word. In retirement, Patch enjoyed traveling and listening to classical music. He volunteered at Inventors HOF and continued to pursue an interest in thoroughbred horse racing. He was a lover of trains and a proud Cleveland sports fan. He was a great story-teller, etymologist, historian, and trivia buff.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Myra (nee Baugh) Ploenes and his sister Elizabeth Daugherty, all of whom he cared for until their deaths. He is also preceded in death by his sister-in-law Darlene “Dee” Ploenes.

Family was very important to Albert.  He took pride in all that his nieces and nephews have accomplished.  He is survived by brother, William (Bill) Ploenes, Niece Lea Burns, Nephew David (Anne) Dougherty, Niece Paula (John) Coon, Nephew John (Barbara) Ploenes, Niece Tracey (Jeff) Bognar and many great nieces and nephews and best friend Nikki Smith.

Albert’s family would like to extend a sincere “Thank you!” to the staff at Concordia/Sumner on Ridgewood for all of their care and support through this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Albert’s name are suggested to Fairlawn West United Church of Christ or to a Charity of One’s Choice.

NOTE TO VIEW LIVE STREAM OF SERVICE, VISIT THE BILLOW FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY FACEBOOK PAGE WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BILLOWFUNERALHOMES . Live Stream will be available Friday, January 29, 2021 at 11:00 AM.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road  Akron, OH  44333.