Robert "Big Al" Cruse

Robert Alan "Al, Big Al" Cruse, age 56, of Akron left this world too soon. He passed away unexpectedly at his home on February 27, 2025. Alan was born in Akron, OH on March 21, 1968 to Gloria L. Cruse and Frederick Alan Keys. He attended Springfield Sr. High School.

Alan spent his life working in many different fields to include landscaping, building maintenance, and even dabbling in farming. Alan also lived in numerous parts of Ohio and the United States while experiencing these endeavors, meeting many friends and acquaintances along the way. Alan was an avid deer hunter and fisherman as well as a huge Ohio State Buckeyes football fan.

Alan is survived by his loving mother, Gloria Cruse; sister, Jennifer (Roy) Shanholtz; son, Jacob Cruse; step-children, Brad Schneider and Dani Copeland and their respective children; aunts, Kathy Holler and Robin Sundheimer; uncle, William Campbell; nephews, Joshua (Alyssa) and Kyle Shanholtz; great-nephew and great-nieces, Joshua, Kylie, Thea and Karter Shanholtz; as well as many cousins, friends and other relatives to include his adoptive father, Robert F. Cruse.

In addition to his biological father, Alan was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Evelyn Bluebaugh; Glenna Keys; great-grandparents, Granny and Gramps Keys; and uncle, Jimmy Ray Campbell. He was also preceded in death by Michael Pierce, a decades long friend whom Alan considered close family.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 11am until 1pm at Newcomer Funeral Home (131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, OH 44305).

Services to immediately follow visitation with Pastor Dwayne Ray officiating.

There will be a Celebration of Life Ceremony from 1:30pm until 5pm following the service at The Coventry Township Community Center (335 Willowview Dr., Akron, OH 44319).

To share a memory of Alan or to leave a special message for his family, please visit the guest book below.