David C. Best, age 67, of Canton, passed away Sunday, September 3. He was born December 27, 1949 in Canton, Ohio to Dorothy Jane Best and the late Vernon A. Best and lived most of his life in Canton.

A graduate of Kent State University, Dave turned his passion for developing young entrepreneurs into a lifetime career, retiring in 2013 after 40 years as an executive with Junior Achievement (JA).

In 1983, Dave became President of Akron's JA where he led the growth to ultimately become what is now known as Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio covering twelve counties. In conjunction with his staff and cadre of business volunteers, they introduced more than half a million young people to financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship.

Dave was an officer of the Atwood Valley Homeowners Association, past member of the Summit County Planning Commission, Rotary Clubs of Canton and Akron, and several business and education advisory councils.

Nothing meant more to Dave than his family. From the time his sons, Eric and Josh were born, to his last day, Dave was there for his family. From baseball games to band performances, graduations to career moves, Dave was there to cheer his sons on and offer support. He loved his grandchildren just as much and relished his time with them. He enjoyed teaching and exploring new things with them often centered on nature and science. He was always there to lend personal and professional life advice to family and friends. He loved to laugh and truly had a great sense of humor. Few things gave Dave more pleasure than cruising in his convertible, boating on Atwood lake and spending time with his two dogs, Zoe and Jasper (AKA: Todd J).

Dave was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and wife of 39 years, Shari Furman Best; his father, Vernon A. Best and nephew, Jory Furman. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Jane Best; son, Eric Best of Arlington, VA; son Joshua (Kayce) Best of Copley, OH; grandsons, Jackson and Gavin Best of Columbus, OH, granddaughters Kamryn and Kylie Best of Copley, OH; sister, Carol (Art) Nauman of South Bend, IN; brother-in-laws Jeff Furman (Janet) of Chapel Hill, NC and Keith Furman (Maureen) of Springfield Ohio; uncle, Raymond Best, of Tucson, AZ; companion, Irene Lewis-Motts of Plain Township, Ohio; nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

A private memorial gathering with family and friends will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio Endowment Fund, PO Box 26006, Akron, OH 44319.

Arnold 330-456-7291

www.arnoldfuneralhome.com