Alan Katz

Alan Marvin Katz, 81, of Canton, passed away on July 17, 2026. Born in Brooklyn, New York, on December 14, 1944, he was the son of Al and Faye (Gilbert) Katz. He spent his youth in New York, attended Bayside High School, and cherished traveling with his brother, Jerry.

Alan proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968 and was stationed at Fort Gordon, Georgia, and Fort Lewis, Washington. Following his military service, he returned to his studies at Lehman College in New York and went on to earn a Ph.D. in Speech Communications from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1975.

Alan began his academic career as a professor of Communications at Arizona State University, where he taught from 1976 to 1981. In 1982, his career brought him to Canton, where he worked in sales and marketing for Akro Corporation. A year after arriving in Canton, he met the love of his life, Patricia. Together they shared 36 wonderful years of marriage.

Alan treasured his family and the time he spent with those he loved. Those who knew Alan well knew that few things made him happier than his wife’s cooking which he enthusiastically praised whenever he could.

Alan had a lifelong passion for basketball. He played throughout his college years, during his Army service, and later in recreational and league play in Canton at the Jewish Community Center and Hall of Fame Fitness Club. He was proud to often be the team MVP. He also enjoyed following sports and was a devoted fan of the New York Yankees, Giants, and Knicks, while enthusiastically supporting Cleveland sports teams as well.

Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Faye Katz; his brother-in-law, Ted Blecher; and his nephew, Joshua Blecher.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia; his stepchildren, Brad Newpoff (Lisa) and Stacey DeFilippo (Anthony); his brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Barbara Katz; his sister, Randi Blecher; and many cherished nieces, nephews, step-grandchildren, cousins, and dear friends.

A private family service will be held in Canton on July 21.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Temple Israel or the Aultman Compassionate Care Center in Canton.