Alan Lewis Tanner

     Alan Lewis Tanner, age 90, of Russell Township in Geauga County, passed away on January 13, 2021. He was born in Lakewood, Ohio, to the late Helen Butzberger Tanner and Howard A. Tanner on August 23, 1930 and lived his early life in Westlake. He graduated from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, in 1952 and The Ohio State University School of Optometry in 1958. He trained as a pilot in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict.

     Alan spent his 45-year career providing vision care as an optometrist in downtown Willoughby. He was a longtime member of Willoughby United Methodist Church (Administrative Board), Willoughby Kiwanis Club (Past President), Lake County YMCA, West End Branch (Board of Directors) and Masonic Lodge #302.

     Alan was an avid sports fan and participant, from playing high school football to coaching youth sports and playing golf weekly most of his life. He also enjoyed playing racquetball, volleyball and softball. In retirement, he participated in many sports with the Babes of 1916 senior sports organization. He also enjoyed camping and fishing. He could often be found sitting around a campfire or observing thunderstorms.

     Family was Alan’s highest priority and deepest joy. Alan married Ann L. (Gastemire) Tanner on December 30, 1953. He is survived by wife Ann, his daughters Cathi Wineland (Rob) of Indianapolis, Indiana and Amy Miller (Mark) of Macungie, Pennsylvania, and son David (Leslie) of Marengo, Ohio; grandchildren Andrew and Marissa Tanner, Abbie and Allie Wineland, Ellie Briggs, and Travis, Justin (Julia) and Braedon Young; sister Patricia A. Rust; nieces, nephews and friends.

     A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Willoughby United Methodist Church.

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