Henry "Hank" Bohnert

Henry “Hank” Bohnert, born April 16, 1962, in Akron, Ohio, passed away on October 21, 2026, in Akron. He will be remembered as a man of warmth, humor, music, and deep affection for both family and animals, someone whose presence brought energy and easy laughter to the lives around him.

Hank devoted 25 years of his working life to Newell Rubbermaid, where he worked as an Equipment Repairman. He also built a life rich with interests that reflected both heritage and heart. He was a member of the Akron German Family Society, where he played in a polka band and performed on the tenor saxophone and clarinet. His love of German music and culture carried him into various groups, youth activities, and traditional German dancing, and even took him to Germany to perform in polka bands and traditional dance, this passion he had for his heritage was shared with his daughter Katie, who now also a part of the Akron German Family Society as she follows in her dad's footsteps.

Beyond music, Hank found joy in the outdoors and especially in horses. He loved helping his daughter with 4-H at the Summit County Fair, supporting her as she showed her horses. That love grew into a lasting passion for riding, and he treasured meeting up with friends for trail rides. In more recent years, he and his wife Joan enjoyed seven years of pontoon boat rides on Portage Lakes, along with many weekends spent listening to the bands that played there.

Animals held a special place in Hank’s life, this love of animals was shared with his beloved wife and mother of his children, Mary Jo, they enjoyed the company of their loving pets together, while enjoying their quiet nights at home. Over the years, they rescued many kinds of animals, including cats, dogs, birds, and horses. They loved their companionship and gave that care generously. 

He was also known as a jokester, someone who delighted in getting a reaction from family and friends. One of his familiar playful habits was waving at no one at all, just to turn and say, “made you look.” That lighthearted spirit was part of what made him so memorable. He also looked forward to visits from his brother- and sister-in-law, Jim and Marykay Viall, times that clearly meant a great deal to him.

At the center of Hank’s life was his family.  He is survived by his wife of five years, Joan Bohnert. He is also survived by his son, Adam Bohnert; his daughter, Katie (Jake) Neptune; his stepson, Ryan Kester; his stepdaughters, Kristi (Tim) Ellison and Hanna Kester; and his granddaughter, Elaina. He is also survived by his brother, Frank (Theresa) Bohnert, and sisters-in-law, Laura, Marlene, and Carol. Together, they carry forward the memory of a man whose humor, loyalty, and love for simple pleasures made an enduring mark on their lives.

Hank was preceded in death by his father, Frank Bohnert; his mother, Katherine Bohnert; his brother, Hans Bohnert; and his first wife, Mary Jo Bohnert, the mother of his children, who passed away on May 12, 2013.

Hank's wishes were to be Cremated, and no services will be held at this time. 

Henry “Hank” Bohnert will be remembered in the music he played, in the trails he rode, in the animals he cared for, and in the laughter he so easily stirred. His memory remains a blessing to those who knew and loved him.