Donald G. "Crank" Cox

Donald G. "Crank" Cox obituary, Roseville, OH

Donald G. "Crank" Cox

Donald Cox Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Ross-Frash Funeral Home – Roseville on Feb. 5, 2026.
Donald G. Cox, 71, of Roseville, affectionately known as "Crank" to those closest to him, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, at Cedar Hill Care Center. Born on September 16, 1954, at Good Samaritan Medical Center in Zanesville, Ohio, Donald's life was a testament to the enduring spirit of family and the joy of embracing the great outdoors. The son of the late Leroy and Rachel "Betty" (Payne) Cox, Donald grew up in a lively household alongside his siblings Charles (Linda) Cox, Russell Cox, Mary Cox, Matty (Jim) Riley, and Tammie Clark. He was preceded in death by his brother Marvin Cox and sister Martha Hayes. Donald's special companion, Barbara Thomas, along with a host of extended family and friends, are left to mourn his passing. Donald's work ethic was as strong as his love for nature. He spent many years with Cleveland Demolition, where he was instrumental in breaking and tearing down various buildings and bridges. An avid outdoorsman, Donald found serenity and joy in hunting and fishing. His respect for nature was profound, and he often shared his passion with those around him, imparting wisdom and fostering a love for the wilderness in others. His stories of adventures in the great outdoors will be fondly remembered and retold by those who were fortunate enough to hear them. Calling hours will be held Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 1:00pm -3:00pm at Ross-Frash Funeral Home, 33 N. Main Street, Roseville. Cremation will follow with a private burial held in the future. You may sign the online register book at www.ross-frashfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald G. "Crank" Cox, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Ross-Frash Funeral Home – Roseville

33 North Main Street, Roseville, OH 43777

Make a Donation
in Donald Cox's name

How to support Donald's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Donald Cox's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Donald Cox's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?