Ray Merlin Dodds

Ray Merlin Dodds, 94, of Massillon, passed away Monday, May 1, 2017, at Sprenger Health Center. He was born to Ella & George Dodds in Canton, OH August 13, 1922. Upon graduation from Timken High School in 1940, Ray enlisted in the US Navy and was attached to the Sixth Marine Division. He served in the South Pacific and was discharged in April 1946. When the Korean War broke out Ray was called back into service until 1952. Ray worked as a claims adjuster for Nationwide Insurance Company until his retirement. In 1953 Ray married Doris Kinder at the Reedurban Presbyterian Church where he served as Sunday School Superintendent and was on the Board of Deacons. Ray received his 50 year pin from the Trinity Masonic Lodge. He also served as president of the Canton Chapter Horseless Carriage Club of America and was also one of the founding members of the Canton Chapter Antique Auto Club of America with Ray serving as their first president. Ray received his 50 year pin from AACA. Ray was a big fan of Dixieland music and the leader of the Hymns of Dixieland which played in numerous churches and clubs in the area. Ray is survived by his special friend, Bettie Netzley, Fred Dodd (Debra) and Karen Maloy, (Mike Gentry). He was preceeded in death by his parents Ella & George Dodds and Dorie, his wife of 50 years, and his Godson, Jeff Keiffer. Family and friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 5 at Paquelet Funeral Home, 1100 Wales Road N.E., Massillon, and beginning at 10 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 6. The Rev. Lynn Shetzer will officiate. Burial will take place at Bloomingdale Cemetery in Bloomingdale, OH. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Sprenger Hospice, 3905 Oberlin Avenue, Lorraine, OH 44053 or the Canton Chapter of the Antique Auto Club of America c/o Bill Lytle, 1808 Lynn Dr., Orrville, OH 44667. www.paquelet.com Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory - 330-833-3222