Mar 16, 2018

Louis “Lou” Bologna Sr., 88, passed away March 13, 2018, in his home after a long illness. He was surrounded by his loving family. He had been an Akronite for 56 years.

He was a first-generation Italian, who was held back in first grade due to his inability to speak proper English. He was raised poor on a farm in Patterson Mills, a man who always believed, “if you follow The Ten Commandments, God will treat you well.” He so strongly believed in the love of family that he would not only start every family event with traditional grace but would take advantage of everyone’s attention and share his wisdom of how “love” is the most important gift for a successful life; “Love of your spouse, family and those you meet every day.” He knew this would make your life happy and full.

He married Lena Mae “Linda,” the love of his life, celebrating 69 years together. All his life, he worked to make sure he could provide everything necessary for her and their three sons. They had a wonderful loving and romantic life full of family and adventure. They loved to dance. Most every Saturday was date night with dinner and dancing with their large group of friends of over 50 years. They now are once again lighting up the dance floor arm in arm with their heavenly father.

An active member of St. Hilary Church and Fairlawn Country Club, along with his wife, Linda, they hosted and supported numerous fundraisers for charities and their church. While his wife was the flower gardener, he was the most avid vegetable and fruit tree gardener and gave oranges as gifts to his clients, remembering it was what he received at Christmas from his parents as a young child. They loved their casino trips to Vegas and Mountaineer, and they also loved to have parties. There was never a birthday, holiday or celebration missed. At these events, he always took the opportunity again to educate and encourage his guests, especially at family functions. One of his most famous sayings at every event was, “God gave you the gift of you; you were born to be great; you are great!” He said it so often, when it became difficult to write, he had a stamp made of the saying.

He was self-taught. He became a certified life underwriter and chartered financial planner. With The Prudential Insurance Co., he achieved the distinction of “Mr. Prudential” in Northeast Ohio. He had outstanding sales and service for over 56 years, and as the oldest living agent, he was still writing business until his passing. He was passionate about and learned how to be successful in investing. He was an individual who believed in himself and felt strongly about helping others believe in themselves as well. He understood hard work, dedication to convictions and helping anyone he came in contact with. He knew no stranger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Assunta and Giuseppe Bologna; brothers Vincent Bologna (Evelyn), Joseph Bologna and Anthony Bologna (Mary); and sister Rose Marie Bologna Friday.

He is survived by his brother, Raymond Bologna (Christina); sons Louis Bologna Jr. (Elaine), Gary Bologna (Vicki), Dr. Raymond Bologna (Dr. Andrea Rodgers); nine grandchildren, Heather Bologna, Hilarie Durrett (Darren), Louis Bologna, Joseph Bologna, Nicholas Bologna, Adam Bologna (Stephanie), Jared Bologna (Lindsey), Jeff Bologna (Olivia) and Isabella Bologna; eight great-grandchildren; many cousins, nieces and nephews; and his beautiful, loving friend and caregiver, Mamie Brown.

Loved ones will be forever grateful to all his caregivers as well as his caring hospice team.

Calling hours will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 19, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. in St Hilary Church, 2750 West Market Street, Fairlawn, OH 44333, with procession to form at the church. Burial to be held in Rose Hill Burial Park, 3653 West Market Street, Akron, OH 44333.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Hilary Catholic Church. Send all memorials and donations to Ciriello and Carr Funeral Home, 39 South Miller Road, Fairlawn, OH 44333.