Franklin Widder

1944 - 2017

Franklin A. “Frank” Widder
age 73, of Canton, passed away on Monday, June 12, 2017, following an extended illness. He was born in Zanesville, Ohio, on June 10, 1944. During his youth he worked at the family business (Widder Hardware) in Carrollton. Frank was a 1962 graduate Carrollton High School and went on to serve in the US Airforce. Following his military service he received a bachelor's degree from Kent State University. He worked at Nationwide Insurance prior to following his passion of fundraising for political and charitable organizations. Frank was an active member of Faith United Methodist Church in North Canton where he served as a Stephen Minister.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Melba Widder; dad, Kenneth Widder; and father, Liboria Arena. Frank is survived by his wife of 28 years, Stephanie (Herzog) Widder; children, Julie (Mike Attar) Richards, David Widder, Vanessa Leininger, and Samantha Widder; grandchildren, Michael, Megan, and Elliott; siblings, Jerry (Judy) Widder, Sonja (Gary) Roof, Tom (Judy) Widder, and Robert (Margaret) Arena; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 16, 2017, at 11a.m., at Faith United Methodist Church (300 9th Street NW, North Canton, OH 44720) with Pastor Cara Stultz Costello, officiating. Family and friends may call on Thursday, June 15, 2017, from 6-8 p.m., at the church. Memorial contributions may be made in Frank's memory to Faith United Methodist Church or The American Lung Association (P.O. Box 7000, Albert Lea, MN 56007). Funeral service entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home of North Canton, Ohio (330-452-404