Adolphus "Al" Reuben Messenger

Adolphus “Al” Reuben Messenger, 89, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 29, 2022, at Aultman Compassionate Care Center. He was born on January 11, 1933, in Marion, Ohio to late Ruby (Messenger) McGinnis. Al was a 1951 graduate of LaRue High School in Marion County. Upon graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He furthered his education after the military at Kent State University where he received his bachelor’s degree in business. He was a proud Eagle Scout in his younger years. During his 28 year career with Ford Motors, many of his inventive and ingenious suggestions were rewarded and implemented at the plant. His amazing thought process (and luck) also made him the perfect Euchre player, which he thoroughly enjoyed playing. Another important part of Al’s life was his devotion to his faith and he was a longtime member of Church of the Lakes. Al was also a dedicated husband, father and especially grandfather to his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were the light of his life. In addition to his family, Al also had a passion for the outdoors. He was an avid bird watcher, camper, and hiker. He and his wife did extensive international and national traveling, visiting 22 countries, hiking many portions of England, as well as hiking the Appalachian Trail and other trails throughout the US. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 62 years, Carol (Lindquist) Messenger; daughters, Karen Sue Sandy and Charlene Messenger; siblings, Dale (Judy) McGinnis and Donna (Floyd) Hicks; grandchildren Aven Snyder, Carolynn (Jim Fisk) Snyder, Marina (Pearson) DeVaul, and Julia (James) Talbert; great-grandchildren, Thomas Klever, Joslynn Klever, Emery DeVaul, Ellie DeVaul, Cody Combest, Jada Talbert, Ensley DeVaul, and Everlee DeVaul. In addition to his mother, Al was preceded in death by his grandson Anthony Sandy and his sister Eula (Hank) Ackerman. The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 15, 2022, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Church of the Lakes, 5944 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, Ohio 44718. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 16, 2022, at 11:00 am also at Church of the Lakes, with calling hours beginning at 10 a.m. The service will conclude with military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Al’s honor to Church of the Lakes Memorial Fund, 5944 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, Ohio 44718.