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Michael Dokes Obituary
Notably known as Michael "Dynamite" Dokes, he was born on August 10, 1958. He was preceded in death by parents, Gordon and Sopora Dokes. Michael was known for his legendary boxing career from 1976-1997. He held many honors which include the Summit County Hall of Fame Boxing Association inductee, August 22, 2010, WBA Heavyweight Champion from 1982-1983, IBF Heavyweight Champion, WBA Inter-Continental Champion, Pan American Silver Medalist, National AAU Heavyweight Champion, and National Golden Gloves Heavyweight Champion. He was a graduate of South High School where he took classes in home economics and tailoring. No doubt he was a "highly recruited and talented heavyweight" boxer who was known in Akron as "The Champ."
He is survived by loving sister and caregiver, Alisa (Gerald) Williams, brothers, Steven Dokes, Charles (Synethia), Dokes, all of Akron and Kevin (Jeri) Dokes of Dayton, Ohio; Uncle Albert (Peggy) Rucker; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, August 18, 2012 at The House of the Lord, 1650 Diagonal Road, where the family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the start of service, Rev. Dennis Butts officiating. Condolences can be sent c/o Mrs. Alisa Williams, 826 Eaton Park Lane, Akron, OH 44303.
SERVICES ENTRUSTED TO RHODEN MEMORIAL HOME, 330-724-1201
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Dokes
Louis Hill Jr
August 7, 2022
God Bless Rest in peace !!!!!!
Clarence Bechter
January 28, 2021
meet you at golden gloves at the Akron Armory rest in peace Michael
we both grew in South Akron
Dr. Tweila-Rochelle Cauthen
December 31, 2017
Family, it still feels like yesterday, when Mike stopped through and spent a day with me at Camp Lejeune while holding the title the FIRST time he beat Weaver. We hung out and danced at The Wiz in Greenville. I was just sitting here reflecting on his legacy, and felt the need to "stop by" today.
I am glad that Mike was saved, and as such, we will see him again. It is my prayer on this day, that God has continued to provide you with the peace and protection that only HE can give.
My regards are also shared by Ed and Dot (Deacon Willie Edward and Dorothy Jean Virden), Louisville, KY
James Key
January 9, 2013
It was a pleasure growing up with you Mike as young boys and knowing as a man. I was sad to hear of your passing Mike.
Condolences to the family.
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December 29, 2012
To Mike, Thank you!!!! For the good times you showed me and my family. You was a true big brother to me... Love Diane best wishes
To your family
December 29, 2012
We will miss you my Dear brother . JDO La Ca
December 19, 2012
To Big Michael God open the Heaven to a True Champ.One that shared his Dreams with his love ones .The World.The Tempation Front row .That was Big Mike , What Game you like ?Meeting him in Las Vages with Another Champ Mr Lyman Edward Pops .Ill miss you both .
Debbie Turnidge
October 19, 2012
Michael I am sad to hear of your passing. I have so many fond memories of you and you always be special to Buck. Fly with the Angels my friend and when you see Craig...give him a big hug for me!
Tonya Sneed
August 28, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tonya Sneed
August 28, 2012
To the Dokes family, please accept my condolences on Michael's passing, may god bless and keep you during this difficult time.
Harvey Sims
August 22, 2012
Mike, a good friend and a real person. Thanks for what you did in your life.You will never be forgotten. Continued blessing to you and your family. Always proud to say I'm from Akron and South High School because of what you accomplished and more. Blessing from the Sims family!
CHAMPION !
GREGORY BEASLEY
August 21, 2012
R.I.P. MIKE YOU WILL BE MISSED !
August 20, 2012
THE ECHO IN HEAVEN RINGS,THE CHAMP IS HERE,THE CHAMP IS HERE! BLESS YOU ALL CHARLIE.FABIAN ROBINSON
August 20, 2012
Perry Johnson Jr.
August 19, 2012
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
SGT. Johnnie Downs
August 19, 2012
Michael Dokes swing his left, Mike Weaver swings with his right, Look at young Michael Dokes fight.
Weaver keeps backing up, but there's not enough room, It's a matter of time till Dokes lower the boom.
Now Dokes lands with a right, what a beautiful swing, and the punch raises Weaver clean out the ring, The Ref wears a frown, as he starts counting while Weaver is down, the crowd is going frantic that they witness Michael "Dynamite" Dokes is WBA Heavyweight Champion of the world. The kid from Akron Ohio.
Champions aren't made in gyms, Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have last minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, they have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill. Then you have Friday night 15 rounds of Boxing MICHAEL MARSHALL DOKES = WBA heavyweight title.
To the Dokes family:
You are not alone.
God is with you during this difficult time. He has not abandoned you. And many prayers are offered up for you, asking that you will receive unfaltering trust, courage, and most of all God's peace.
Memories keep those we love close to us forever.
We weep for Michael our tears watering the hope to meet in heaven.
Brian Turner
August 19, 2012
To Charles Dokes and Family,
My family's thoughts are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. But understand that grief is something that you go through, not something to stay with you.
August 18, 2012
My heartfelt condolences and eternal prayers go out to the family of Michael Dokes. In having started out with Mike at the Akron Y on Lawton, in Kenmore with Coach Jimmy Rice, onto camps with Muhammad Ali and Deer Lake onto Don King, I treasure fond memories of the fly-dressing Mike of South High who was also a champion gourmet chef. Mike bigger-than-life sile and presence where be an enduring presence in a world he managed to touch in profound ways. GOD Bless. - Phil "Fight Dr." Tate.
Charles Mingo
August 18, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Dokes Family. May the love of God grant you peace in this time of sorrow. May he give you strength to endure!
THE MINGO'S: Carrie,Charles,Denise,Edward
REV MICHAEL&ANGELA BURLEY
August 18, 2012
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Lillie/ Larry Crosby/Reed
August 17, 2012
To Lisa and the extended Dokes Family. It's never easy to lose a love one we are never prepared even when we think we are. My brother Larry and myself want to let you guys know we pray that the days may get better and the pain eases for you, think of the great times you shared with Mike and put all yor faith in our Lord and he will be with you when you need him GOD BLESS.
Alecia Edding
August 17, 2012
R.I.P.
August 17, 2012
i have never send a left jab and a straight right hand to the champS family our prayer go out to you from Thomas and Diane Mitchell ( BIG mITCH)
Ray and Jackie Cole
August 17, 2012
Our Prayers are with you(Alisa)and your family.Deeply saden to hear the lost of your brother.
CYNETHIA PATTERSON
August 17, 2012
MAY THE LORD COMFORT THE DOKES FAMILY IN ALL WAYS AT THIS TIME. MIKE WAS A GOOD FRIEND I MET AT BUCHTEL HIGH ,HE WAS ALWAYS THERE CHEERING US ON DURING FOOTBALL AND BASKETBALL SEASON AND FOUGHT ALONG SIDE MY FAMILY DURING THE GOLDEN GLOVES YEARS AT THE AKRON ARMORY DOWNTOWN AKRON. HE WILL BE TRULY MISS. GOD BLESS YOU~
Robert & Denise Taylor
August 17, 2012
To the Dokes family,
You are in our prayers and God will give you strength during your time of sorrow. God Bless You.
Robert and Denise Taylor of VA Beach
TYRONE BULLARD
August 17, 2012
MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU , IN YOUR HOUR OF SADNESS.KEVIN DOKES CALL ME. 954 249 5377
Charles Seaver
August 17, 2012
RIP CHAMP
Elder Carl E Browm
August 17, 2012
Our prayers for and condolences to the Dokes family.There are 2 standout experiences that I had with Mike that will never be forgotten.May the Lord keep you all..
Mary Albaugh
August 17, 2012
To the Dokes family, my thoughts and prayers are with your at this time, I remember him fondly from when I worked at the Acme in the 1980's, he was always very respectful and kind to me.
Mary Albaugh
Rev. Harriette Mingo/Family
August 17, 2012
To the Dokes Family, may God give you comfort at this time. Take comfort in knowing Mike was well loved.
Judy and Steve Powers
August 17, 2012
Our condolences to you Lisa and family
Freddy J. McGinnis
August 17, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
DANNY THOMAS
August 17, 2012
TO THE DOKES FAMILY; MAY MY FAMILY AND I OFFER OUR CONDOLENCES. I NEVER MET MIKE, BUT GROWNG UP IN AKRON I WOULD LISTEN TO ALL THE STORIES ABOUT HIM. WHEN HIS DAD WOULD COME BY OUR HOUSE AND TALK WITH MY PARENTS I WOULD LISTEN TO HIM TELL ME ABOUT MIKE AND A LOT OF BOXING LEGENDS OF THE CITY. AKRON HAS A LEGACY OF TALENT. A REAL HISTORY.
DANNY THOMAS AND FAMILY
Pastor J.Michael Martin, Sr.
August 16, 2012
To Steven Dokes and the members of the Dokes familly; each of you are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this time of bereavement. May God provide you comfort.
August 16, 2012
Rhoden Memorial Home
August 17, 2012
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
TYRONE BULLARD
August 16, 2012
CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY
Dr. Darnell Banks
August 16, 2012
Condolences to the Dokes family. We shared many memories. May the family be comforted at this time.
OLIVER'S
August 16, 2012
"May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.-Eleanor,Leroy,Mark,Tammy.The OLIVER FAMILY.
Gwen & Jimmy Wynn Detroit,mi Roger Stafford & family
August 16, 2012
To the Dokes Family, We knew Micheal from Thornton Park where we spend our summers playing and together while he visit his grandmother house mrs. Banks so he became part of the south Akron family. He will be miss. So sorry for your lost. The Richmond & Stafford Family Sues Court
Barry Mack
August 16, 2012
My condolences to the Dokes family. I had the opportunity to share some great times with Mike here in Los Angeles, and I will truly miss him. He was a GIANT and a true boxing legend. May God's Peace be with the family at this time of sorrow
cynthia henderson linder
August 16, 2012
Rest in Peace Champ . See you in Heaven
Gwenola Cheatham-Freeman
August 16, 2012
TO THE DOKES FAMILY. My GOD COMFORT YOUR HEART AT THE LOSS OF OUR DEAR FRIEND, BROTHER. HE WILL BE SORELY MISS. OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY
KENNY&GWENOLA(CHEATHAM)-FREEMAN
Zina Tanner
August 16, 2012
Sorry to hear about your loss. Please know that God is always just a prayer to give you all comfort.
Cheryl Wheeler
August 16, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
August 16, 2012
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kim Dokes
August 16, 2012
To Stevie, Charlie, Kevin, and Lisa,
"Bless those that mourn: For they shall be comforted" Matthew 5:4, our prayers are with you and yours. Kim, Charles Jr. Carl and Brittany Dokes, and Howard Daniel.
LINDA SANDERS
August 16, 2012
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Tiney Knotts & Family
August 16, 2012
we would like to send our deepest sympathy to the dokes family and friends...he was ah great champion...R.I.P DYNOMITE
Master Clark
August 16, 2012
DOKES FAMILY,
I'm sorry to hear about Michael,he was areally nice young man,he will be sadly missed,may he rest in peace.
With Love Always
Master Clark and Family
August 16, 2012
My hearfelt deepest condolences to my 1976 south high fellow grad & friend family. Mike was truly an inspiration & he will truly be missed. may GOD comfort & keep the Dokes family during their time of sorrow. LOVE you all! from: Mr. Delbert Lynn Ammons, Los Angeles, California
Gloria Carter
August 16, 2012
You are at peace now MIKE. U FOUGHT LOND AND HARD. Now u can rest.
August 16, 2012
i had the honor of meeting and spending time with Dokes through a mutual friend this year and he is an awesome man, he made me laugh...his sister Lisa is amazing I watched her care for him until he departed this world. I am so happy I had the chance to meet and enjoy his company. I was there for his last birthday party and it was amazing to see -- He will be missed - Lisa I am praying for you. to the "CHAMP"!!
Angelina Cox
August 16, 2012
May God comfort your family in your time of sorrow.
August 16, 2012
To The Dokes Family,
I recently became acquainted with Michael via Shock and my brother-n-law, Leo Belton. God could not have blessed my existence with a kinder man; always smiling, never complaining. I know the pain of loosing a brother. Therefore my love and prayers go out to you all.
With Sincere Thought,
Cheryl K. Wells
THE BOYER FAMILY AVIE,LARRY,ROSAYN,REGGIE,STACIE
August 16, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Virgil Varner
August 16, 2012
Rest in peace Mike. Thanks for your inspiration to others in Akron.Ohio and around the World...
MOLLIE ADAMS
August 16, 2012
THANK YOU , LISA FOR THE WONDERFUL CARE YOU GAVE MICHAEL THE PAST TWO YEARS , U GAVE HIM LIFE BEYOND MEASURE. THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING ME TO BE PART OF YOUR FAMILY..MICHAEL, I KNOW THAT YOU AND PO PO AND MOM WILL BE LOOKING OUT FOR ALL OF US ! I LOVE U FOREVER, YOUR ELIZABETH
Lamounte Stembridge and Family
August 16, 2012
For his anger endureth but a moment;weeping may endure for a night; but Joy cometh in the morning Psalm 30:5
Eula Morant
August 16, 2012
To the Dokes Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time in your life.
I am happy I had a chance to visit with Mike last summer in Akron.
Jay & Leslie Farr
August 16, 2012
Lisa and the Dokes family, my sincere condolences on the loss of your brother. May God Bless you and your entire family.
Daphne Wallace
August 16, 2012
My prayer and deepest sympathy goes out the family stay strong you are
in my prayers
Gordon Garrett
August 16, 2012
To the Dokes Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest-in- Peace Mike .....
JOHNNY BOGARD
August 16, 2012
TO THE DOKES FAMILY MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW WE GREW UP TOGETHER AND NOW WE MUST SAY GOOD BYE TO THE CHAMP R.I.P MIKE
Charlene Haverlick
August 16, 2012
My deepest condolences to the family. I met Michael when he fought Golden Gloves, my father was Chet O'Kelley, and he was such a gentleman and master tailor. May you rest in peace.
Donald & Toni Manes
August 16, 2012
Our thoughts and Prayers are with The Dokes Family at this sad time. I remember his sister Ilisa and brother from Thornton. He really was such a nice guy and I am Very Proud to have known him and some of his Family. May God comfort and Bless You All!
Bigg Stace
August 16, 2012
In your honor ...
William Bowie
August 16, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sterling Lundy
August 16, 2012
My Prayers go out to ther Dokes Family,God bless.
James R. Ashford
August 16, 2012
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of the love of your life. Remembering your great love story today and always.
Jaland Finney
August 16, 2012
Words are truly inadequate to express our heartfelt condolences.
Rest in Peace, Champ!
Jaland Finney and Family
Albert Bragg
August 16, 2012
Charles, you and your family have my deepest sympathies for the loss of your brother. May God bless you all and keep you close!
The many faces of MICHAEL DOKES
CHARLES MINGO
August 16, 2012
Barbara Pride
August 16, 2012
I had the honor of meeting Michael. He was an awesome man. I had a nice time with him and my husband at the time. We all laughed and had a great time. He will be miss by many, but forgotten by none! My heart and prayers goes out to his family and friends. Thank you Michael for being you! R.I.P Heaven just got another Angel!!
Frank & Terra Johnson
August 16, 2012
To Charlie and the Dokes Family,we will keep you all in prayer.
D C
August 16, 2012
Akron Boxing Legend.
Robin Stevens Sr
August 15, 2012
we send u our blessings,we grew up with mike ,he will be dearly missed,God bless you all. from all of the Stevens family.
Montrey (Lane) Suddeth
August 15, 2012
Gone but never forgotten RIP Michael may Gods Grace and Mercy see the entire Family through this difficult time of the loss of your Loved One.
VALERIE YOUNG BOZEMAN
August 15, 2012
TO THE DOKES FAMILY MAY GOD BLESS KEEP YOU MICHAEL WILL BE TRUELEE MISS WE GO BACK TOO LANE SCHOOL R.I.P MICHAEL!
The Ross Family
August 15, 2012
The Ross Family extends their deepest sympathy.
Marcella Fleming (Ramsey)
August 15, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Dokes family in this time of sorrow. I personally never met Michael, however, I did go to school with Kevin and asked many times how his brother was doing on his up and coming career! So sorrow to hear of your loss. May God bless you in this time of need.
Andrew Ward
August 15, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Anita (Anderson) Wilkson
August 15, 2012
To Charlie and the Dokes family. You have my deepest condolences and prayers on the loss of your loved one. You and yoour family are in my prayers and may you find peace and comfort knowing that others have you in their thoughts and prayers as well.
Ernie Orr
August 15, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sheila Loftin
August 15, 2012
R.I.P. Michael You will be miss
The Malone Family
August 15, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Michael Murphy
August 15, 2012
Kevin, Lisa and the rest of the family know that my Prayers are with all of you. Mike you were a inspiration to me as a young aspiring athlete,thanks for taking the time to talk and inspire me you will never be forgotten.
Tom Roughhouse Fischer
August 15, 2012
RIP Michael,,Our condolensces to the Dokes Family, sister and brothers at this most difficult time of his passing and celebration of his life and achievements. Michael and Tom Roughhouse Fischer of Dayton Ohio fought at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas in 1980. Michael gave Tom the only visible scar on his left eye of his career from that event. Tom went on after that fight and sparred yet again at a training camp in Pennsylvania. There was an immediate respect for each others ability and records. We were saddened to hear of this latest fight he had with cancer and pray for his familys comfort at this time,,,Truly remembered for his battles in and out of the ring but with respect as a Champion and good person. Tom Roughhouse and Sherrie Fischer, Dayton Ohio
August 14, 2012
Thanks Champ ( not just boxing but in life also) for all the years of GREAT memorable moments in Florida and Akron, Ohio. Your friendship and kindness is one of a kind. R.I P. my brother. I know the Good Lord will take over from here. Going to miss that laugh.( AT AT AT AT AT AT AT AT) To Lisa and the Dokes family, may the Lord confort you and give you the peace of God. Donnie Banks (D.B.) and family
August 14, 2012
lISA & FAMILY IM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS..I REMEMBER WHEN I WOULD COME TO YOUR HOUSE AND MIKE WOULD ALWAYS SAY..I GOT MY EYE ON YALL....GOD HAS ANOTHER ANGEL IN HIS HOME...R.I.P....
Gayle Fikes and family
August 14, 2012
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the Dokes family. Michael was a charming,warm and fun loving person. We were at his fight in Vegas when he became the WBA Heavyweight Champion of the World...what a thrill to be present when our home town hero propelled himself to greatness.I'll never forget you Mike! Thanks for the love! May God continue to bless you and keep you in heaven! Walk tall family..he's in good hands!
Steve Liston
August 14, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Kevin and the Whole Dokes entourage.So glad to hear Mike accepted Christ.
steve sonny liston
Fredd Milbry
August 14, 2012
My deepest condolences to the Dokes Family during this time...I first met Michael in 1971 when we played Bantams football for the South Rangers. Throughout the years whenever we would cross paths we would reflect back on those Ranger days...A real good guy has left us, he made us all very proud when he took the throne as the Heavy Weight Champion of the World from Akron...Rest in Peace Ranger!
Lynn (Blackwell) Lee
August 14, 2012
To the Dokes Family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May God grant you strength and peace during your time of loss. Lynn (Blackwell) Lee and the family of Boxer Fate Davis, Jr.
Paula and Tim Demich
August 14, 2012
Alisa & Gerald,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. May Michael rest in peace. He was a wonderful brother and friend to all of you and I know he will be truely missed. May God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Roz and Fruitty ~ Neighborhood Family
August 14, 2012
Lisa and Family,
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever. Praying for your family.
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