David W. Robinson

David William Robinson, 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

David was born in Akron, Ohio on February 10, 1934 to the late Robert James and Agnes Mae (Magee) Robinson. He graduated from Kenmore High School in 1952 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1957 from the University of Akron. He also served in the military as a member of the United States Army Reserve. On December 22, 1957, the day he considered the happiest day of his life, he married his high school sweetheart, Norma Jean (Thornberry). Shortly thereafter, they settled for a lifetime in Coventry Township, where they had a wonderful life together that included raising two sons.

David was employed by Barberton Public Schools for nearly his entire teaching career. He was a Physical Education teacher, coach, mentor and role model to many of the young boys who attended U. L. Light Junior High School. As a basketball coach at U. L. Light, he won over 300 games, won over 74 percent of all the games he ever coached, and he never had a losing season. His teams were the primary feeder of talent to the highly successful Barberton High School basketball teams in the 1970’s and 1980’s. After he retired from Barberton Public Schools, David continued coaching for nearly 10 years at various levels in the Green Local School District. He was inducted into the Barberton Sports Hall of Fame in 1995 as a result of his contributions to Barberton basketball.

Grandpa Dave was a devoted father and grandfather who especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. He greatly enjoyed watching all his grandchildren participate in sporting events, achieve academic and professional success, and mature into impressive and responsible young adults.

Along with his wife, David enjoyed hosting the extended family Christmas party on Christmas Eve for nearly 50 years. There was always plenty to eat, a festive environment, a visit from Santa, and an opportunity to catchup with all the family members.

David and Norma also liked to travel in their retirement years. Although there were many trips and many destinations, they found Oglebay Park and Colonial Williamsburg particularly enjoyable as a couple or with family members. David also liked to follow the professional sports teams in Cleveland, especially the Cavaliers.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his sister, Roberta Vough; and his brother, Robert Robinson. He is survived by his loving wife, Norma Robinson; sons, David (Lisa) Robinson and Gerald Robinson; grandsons, Jeremy (Taylor), Ryan (Madison), Jonathan, and David Tyler (Hannah) Robinson; and several nephews and their families.

A private funeral service for the family was previously held at Bacher Moore Funeral Home, followed by a burial at Greenlawn Memorial Park.