Gerald S. Mcfadden

Gerald S. McFadden passed away on August 31, 2018.
Gerald, known as Jerry by all his friends, was born in Akron, Ohio on October 3, 1930. His parents, Philip and Bonnie, were born in Kentucky and came to Ohio to find opportunity in the growing rubber industry, and in so doing found each other. McFadden was preceded into death by his cherished wife Mary Ellen in January 1999. Mary Ellen and Gerald were married nearly 45 years.
Gerald loved God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and took counsel with and from them throughout his life. For many years he and Mary Ellen were members of Christ United Methodist Church in Akron and more recently enjoyed the fellowship of Bath Church in Bath Township. To compliment and support his beliefs, he enjoyed doing volunteer work for both Akron City Hospital and The Visiting Nurse Service Hospice, and served as a Stephens Minister. He also volunteered in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park as a uniformed volunteer.
McFadden as a child experienced infantile paralysis. It did not deter him, it served as an incentive for him to seek out tough physical and mental assignments to prepare him for opportunities that might come his way.
He and Mary Ellen enjoyed many things. Hiking, golf, tennis and cross country skiing provided many memorable experiences. Travel was also a favorite avocation, both foreign and domestic. Favorite places to visit were his beloved Scotland and China, and Hawaii. He spent a summer in Russia where he taught at The Novgorod State University.
McFadden attended Akron schools, graduating from South High in 1948. He also attended and graduated from Kent State University where he obtained both a bachelor's and master's degree. An R.O.T.C. graduate, Gerald served in the U.S. Army during the last days of the Korean Conflict.
His life work included several worthwhile and interesting jobs. Gerald, as he would say, had the privilege of working as the local office manager of the Ohio State Employment Service, was Director of Staff Personnel at the University of Akron, a teacher in the Akron Public Schools, served as the Summit County Administrator and as Associate Professor of Business Emeritus for Malone University, Canton Ohio.
In addition to his work life, McFadden enjoyed serving the community in various capacities. He was a past president of the Akron Jaycees, and was elected Junior Chamber International Senator, a past president of the West Akron Kiwanis, a past president of the Goodwill Industries of Greater Akron, a past president of the National Association of County Administrators, and was executive Vice President of the Board of the Akron Symphony Orchestra. He served (49) years on the Board and was Honorary (Life) member of the Board. He served on a number of boards and committees, including the Northern Ohio Golf Charities, while involved with Northern Ohio, he served in a variety of capacities including co-chairman of the 1959 Rubber City Open. He is an Honorary (Life) member of the Board. He served (58) years.
He served the United Way of Summit County, including two campaigns as a Division Chairman. He is also a past president of Good Will Industries of Greater Akron.
He leaves behind a number of wonderful friends and favorite cousins in Utah and Kentucky. He is grateful to many people including: The Rev. Maureen Webber and his many friends at The Bath Church; Michael Gedeon, M.D.; R. Douglas Trochelman, M.D.; and James Klejka, M.D. for their care.
Graveside services will be held Noon FRIDAY at Rose Hill Burial Park with Rev. Maureen Webber officiating. Suggested donations, in lieu of flowers: Malone University, Akron Symphony Orchestra, The Bath Church U.C.C., and Hospice of Visiting Nurse Service. To share a Memory, Send a Condolence or Light a Candle, visit the Tribute Wall at www.billowfuneralhomes.com (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)