Douglas Maher

Douglas B. Maher, age 70, passed away on Sunday, March 5, 2023, while kayaking on the Cuyahoga River. Doug was born on August 15, 1952, in St. John's, Newfoundland on Pepperrell U.S. Air Force Base. He was raised and spent nearly his entire life in Akron, OH.

Doug attended St. Sebastian Parish School, Archbishop Hoban High School, and Ohio University. After graduating from The Ohio State University College of Law, he practiced with his father, Ralph Maher. Advocating for social justice, Doug believed in fighting for the underdog.

Doug was passionately involved in Alcoholics Anonymous. As a sponsor, he helped over 30 people reach and maintain their sobriety. Doug was active in Founders' Day and celebrated over 35 years of sobriety.

Doug's appreciation for the outdoors started in Boy Scouts and continued throughout his life. He enjoyed hiking, camping, and canoeing. He ran more than 50 half or full marathons in 29 different states. He was a lover of books, sports, travel, and music. Doug was a loyal Democrat.

Doug's greatest joy was family. He had strong bonds with his six siblings and his parents. His legacy will be his 6 children, 15 grandchildren, and one more on the way.

He is preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Margaret (Scott) Maher and sister Jean. He is survived by his children Erin Cherewatti, Austin (Caitlin) Maher, Monique (Brian) Simmons, Natalie (Adam) Magaña, Courtney (Andy) Gargiulo, James (Noel) Maher; grandchildren Chase Cherewatti, Logan Cherewatti, Brooke Cherewatti, Finnegan Maher, Saoirse Maher, Órlagh Maher, Aoife Maher, Camille Simmons, Charlie Simmons, Sebastian Simmons, Genevieve Simmons, Ella Magaña, Abigail Magaña, Gabriella Gargiulo, and Liam Gargiulo; siblings Richard (Laurie) Maher, John (Pat) Maher, Marie (Eric) Stajcer, Alice (John) Luse, James (Judy) Maher; previous wives Patrice Maher and Lisa Connolly and many loved nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Hummel Funeral Home, 500 E. Exchange Street from 4 to 7 PM on Tuesday, March 14. Mass will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, March 15 at St. Sebastian Church, 476 Mull Ave. Akron. Live stream link is: https://youtube.com/live/Lr7_DO4Qc_c?feature=share

The family wishes memorial contributions be made to NPR Ideastream Public Media.