NAPOLEON -- David Leon Kananen, 84, of Napoleon, Ohio passed away at the Cleveland Clinic on November 27, 2023. He was born in Laurium, Michigan on October 17, 1939 to the late Eino and Ina (Waanen) Kananen. David married Kathleen Maier on October 10, 1964.
Dave proudly served his country in the US Army. He and Kathy hosted many international students from BGSU over the years, who became like family. He enjoyed curling and playing hockey, he was a season ticket holder for the BGSU Falcon Hockey Team. In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening and feeding his birds. Dave and Kathy enjoyed traveling and collecting music boxes together.
He is survived by his children, Laura (James) Lewis, Susan (Brian) Walrath, and Doug (Amy) Kananen; grandchildren, Charlotte, Jacob, and Elijah (Katie) Lewis, Kelley and Tanner Walrath, Ashley, Chase, and Colby Hutchison. In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy; and sister Nancy (Steve) Sandor.
Friends and family will be received at the Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home, Napoleon on Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 10 AM until the memorial service at 11 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences and messages may be shared with the family at rodenbergergray.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Marvin Kananen
November 18, 2024
I am David's cousin, Marvin Kananen, son of John and Nelma nee Kangas Kananen, currently living in Bellevue, Washington. I had not heard of David's death until in a moment of silliness I looked up the name Kananen and found this sad notice. A year late, I offer my condolences. David and Kathy had visited us here once, and I was once in Napoleon. Blessings to their kids.
Ed & Joan Djerf
December 2, 2023
We were so saddened to hear of your dad's passing. Enjoyed getting together with your parents through the years. Our heartfelt sympathy.
Ed & Joan Djerf
Calumet, MI
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Funeral services provided by:
Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home - Napoleon1010 Westmoreland Avenue, Napoleon, OH 43545

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more