William "Stu" Stuver Parry

William Stuver Parry, a man known for his wise counsel and steady hand in business and in life, passed away August 15, 2025 at the age of 92. He lived according to his deeply held values of faith, family and community, which served as a foundation for all he did. Many sought Stuver’s wise guidance, and he always delivered his message with grace and humility. He would often lighten someone’s load with his special brand of humor, dispatching his comical remarks with a sly grin.

Stu valued building and nurturing personal relationships. He often called people to meet for “a roll and coffee” to catch up and discuss matters face to face. He led by example and inspired those around him with his vibrant energy and rock-solid moral compass. He was always the compassionate voice of reason, helping others sort through problems and possibilities to arrive at inspired solutions.

Stu was born and raised in the Akron area, the oldest of seven children of Lucille and William Parry. He graduated from Western Reserve Academy and attended Oberlin College. His education was interrupted by the Korean War, during which he joined the U.S. Army National Guard. He served as a sergeant major of an Engineer Battalion for two years. He returned to finish his education at The University of Akron, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

While a student at UA in 1954, Stu began its soccer program and coached the team for 16 years. It began as a club team, but it quickly became apparent the team was ready for varsity status, which it achieved in 1955. Stu led the team to nine Ohio College Soccer Association titles as well as six NCAA playoff appearances. In 2010, he cheered as the team he started won the NCAA Division 1 Men’s Championship (the College Cup). Stu maintained his athleticism all his life and believed in the transformative power of fitness. He played handball, golfed and jogged, among other sports. He walked daily into his 90s, no matter the weather.

Stu was employed by The Akron Welding and Spring Co. (later named the Parry Corporation) for 45 years. Founded by his maternal grandfather in 1912, the company grew and thrived for decades under the family’s leadership. Stu retired as its chief executive and chairman in 1996 when the company was sold to Praxair.

Stuver was a community leader and believed in devoting one’s time, talent and treasure for its betterment. He chaired the 1998 capital campaign for the Riverfront, Green and Canal Square YMCAs and the dining hall and riding arena at Camp Y-Noah. He played a pivotal role in securing the $3 million gift from the Knight Foundation that helped build the Kohl Family YMCA at University Park. Beyond the Y, Stu served as president or trustee of a long list of organizations, including the Summit County Salvation Army; Rotary Club of Akron; National Soccer Coaches Association of America; The University of Akron Alumni Association; Red Cross of Summit County; South Akron Board of Trade; and Summit County Mental Hygiene Clinic.

He also served as an elder and church school teacher in the Presbyterian Church and was active in the United Way, the Akron Community Foundation and other civic and professional organizations.

Stu was elected to the Summit County Sports Hall of Fame in 1977 and was one of the original inductees into The University of Akron Hall of Fame. He was honored with the distinguished University of Akron Alumni Award in 1979.

Stu was married to the former Nancy Collins for 56 years. The couple set an example of a marriage based on faith in Christ, mutual respect, love and plenty of humor. He is survived by their four children: William (Caroline), Heather Crampton (Thomas), David (Maureen), and Kathyrn Parry (Bryan Shellenberg). He is also survived by his brother Jim and sister Linda, 12 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

A Service of Remembrance will be held on TUESDAY, September 2nd at The Bath Church, United Church of Christ, 3980 W. Bath Rd. Calling hours are at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. The service will also be livestreamed on The Bath Church youtube Channel: https://youtube.com/live/_XwopNSYna8?feature=share . In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the YMCA, the Salvation Army or the Akron Community Foundation.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)