JOHN H. BENTZ, age 49 of Canton passed away Saturday at home surrounded by his loving family. He was a life resident of Canton. Survived by his wife Josie and their three sons Alexander, Andrew and Austin, parents Harold Bentz, Gaye Gibson, two brothers Dave and Steve and Steve's three children Tylor, Kaylee and Dillon and a large extended family or as John fondly called them "The Outlaws." John graduated from GlenOak High School in 1982 and went on to work as a Roofing Journeyman alongside his Dad. He left roofing for a few years to work for a tank testing company with his brother-in-law Gary only to return to roofing after his son Andrew was born. John's love of golf led him to play in high school where they went to State his junior and senior year. He and his dad were partners on the golf course and were blessed these last five years playing on the golf courses in Florida. Fishing was spent at Leesville Lake. Spending summers there as a young boy, he would knock on neighbors doors as early as 7am to show off his first catch of the day. He later would become a fisherman of muskie. He and his friend Brian Ripley would spend countless hours trolling the lake for the big catch. A skilled player of darts and a member of the Akron Canton Dart Club, allowed him to play in Las Vegas, Chicago, as well as several leagues and Friday night games for 25 years. He earned the nickname "Midnight" for his uncanny ability to always be in the finals after midnight. He and his friend (and later business partner), John Church, had a standing Friday night bet in which "Midnight" would leave a little richer. Raising his sons included religion, and in April of 1998 with his godparents (uncle Stuart/aunt Eleanor Phillips) professed his faith of Catholicism at St. Anthony Church where he was married six years earlier. John's pride were his sons. Through his love, guidance and wisdom he was hands on starting with Cub Scouts projects with Alex, progressing to hunting with Andrew to fishing with Austin. John was diagnosed in 2005 with an Endocrine tumor. He handled his disease and maintained his health with poise, grace and humor. Family and friends will be received on Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the Rossi Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 10 am at St. Anthony/All Saints Catholic Parish with Rev. Fr. Tom Bishop celebrant. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

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