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Richard Gessner Obituary
founder of Massillon Cable TV, Inc., died at his home on July 18, 2018. Born June 30, 1928, Dick was a 1950 graduate of Bucknell University and a Massillon resident and business owner for more than 50 years. He and Susan (his wife of 67 years) founded Massillon Cable TV (now MCTV) in 1965. Prior to cable TV, Dick worked in radio and television in Philadelphia and New York, including a brief stint as a page at NBC. His first cable TV experience was obtaining franchises in upstate New York. Recognized as a Cable Pioneer, Dick was one of the founders of the Ohio Cable Television Association and served as Chairman of the Community Antenna Television Association. MCTV continues to operate as a family business, now managed by second- and third-generation family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. George and Florence Gessner and his brother, William Gessner. He is survived by Susan; his brother, James Gessner; his sons, Richard (Hyeweon-Lee) Gessner, Jr. and Robert (Nancy) Gessner, and his daughter, Elizabeth (Larry) McAllister; granddaughters, Suzanne (Troy) Bradshaw, Katherine (Michael) Duplay and Anne McAllister; and great-grandchildren, Martha Bradshaw, Ruth Bradshaw and John Bradshaw.
A memorial service will be held at St. John's United Church of Christ (101 Tremont Ave SE, Massillon) at 1 p.m. on Monday, July 23, 2018. The family will greet visitors from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. before the service. In lieu of flowers, the family will appreciate memorial contributions to St. John's UCC or the Massillon Museum Capital Campaign (121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon, OH 44646). Funeral details are available at the Paquelet Funeral Home website: http://www.paquelet.com/obituary
Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory
330-833-3222
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Gessner
5 Entries
Sharon Johns
July 24, 2018
I am so so sorry to hear of Dick's passing. I have many fond memories working for your family. Your family is so sweet and caring. Dick often spoke of the pride he had for his family and his business, and how he made it from the ground up through plain hard work. I was always proud of you all, too. My heart breaks for you all. The world, and especially Massillon, has lost a great man. I think of you all often, and I wish you peace. Love, Sharon
Anna Waters
July 20, 2018
We are so sorry to hear of Dick's passing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you you and your family.
Bob & Anna Waters, Macon, Ga.
July 20, 2018
Rich, I was saddened to learn of your father's passing. He was a true Massillon Tiger: a faithful and loving husband and father; a businessman who always put service above profit; and, a community leader. My brother Dean admired him greatly. Peace to you and your family this day and in all the days to come.
Keith Griffin, Saint Simons Island, Georgia
July 20, 2018
Rich, I was saddened to learn of your father's passing. He was a great man - faithful to his family, a businessman who never put profit above service, and a leader in the community leader. My brother Dean admired him greatly. Peace be with you all this day and all the days to come.
Timothy Reichel
July 20, 2018
I am saddened by the loss of a man 'bigger than life.' I am proud and honored to have called you friend. Prayers to Susan and family at this most difficult time.
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Paquelet and Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Homes1100 Wales Rd NE, Massillon, OH 44646
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