David Thornton Holvey

David Thornton Holvey, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and community servant, passed from this world leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of kindness, faith, and love. Born on February 9, 1940, in Doylestown, Ohio, to Mildred and William Holvey, Dave was the youngest of three boys, growing up alongside his brothers Don and William(Jim).

Dave came of age at Chippewa High School, where his natural athleticism set him apart. A gifted basketball player and track competitor, he left an indelible mark on the school's athletic history, most notably earning a school record at the state track meet in the hurdles, an achievement that spoke to both his physical gifts and his relentless drive. These formative years were also marked by profound sorrow: the sudden loss of his father to a heart attack tested the family's strength and shaped Dave's quiet resilience for the rest of his life.

It was during those high school years that Dave met the love of his life, Philomena (Phil) Paridon. Their bond deepened through his years at Ashland University, where he pursued a degree in business and became a proud member of a fraternity that would provide him with lifelong friendships. On June 9, 1962, just weeks after his graduation, Dave and Phil were married, beginning a partnership built on devotion, faith, and unwavering love for 64 years.

Together, Dave and Phil welcomed two children: a son, David (Susan), and a daughter, Jennifer (Brian). He is further blessed by seven grandchildren Nicholas (Talor), Brandon (Taylor), Madeline, Victoria (Ben), Phillip, William and Caroline and one great-grandchild, Hudson, each of whom carries forward the warmth and values he so generously poured into family life.

Dave's professional life was one of ambition and adaptability. His career carried him and his family across the country to California, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Ohio always remained his true home, where he spent the greater part of his life and planted his deepest roots.

Dave was a man of deep civic conviction. He served his community as mayor and as a member of the school board, roles that reflected his belief that a life well lived is one given in service to others. His faith was equally central and a guiding light he returned to throughout his life. In the face of health challenges, Dave's positive spirit never wavered. He remained fun-loving and full of youthful zeal even as he continued to age. He had a rare and beautiful gift: the ability to see the good in every person he encountered and to make each one feel truly important.

Kind, determined, humble, and full of love Dave Holvey was an extraordinary man. Soft-spoken and steadfast, he was a role model to every member of his family and an inspiration to all who knew him. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will live on in the countless hearts he so profoundly shaped.

The devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, father, grandfather, and husband will be sorely missed. Yet those who loved him find comfort in the knowledge that God's light now shines upon him, and that he watches over those he held dear from his place in heaven. He will be dearly missed, always admired, and forever etched in our memories.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Dave's name to St. Hilary Parish 2750 W. Market St. Fairlawn, OH 44333.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."

Matthew 5:8