Born on November 28, 1943, in Marion, Illinois, Arthur was the son of Rosa (née Croft) and Paul Tanner.
A proud graduate of East High School, Class of 1962, Arthur went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force.
During his military service, he developed surgical skills that would shape the course of his professional life. After his service, he built a meaningful career as a surgical technician, dedicating more than twenty-five years to the operating rooms of St. Thomas Hospital (now Summa Health).
Before returning to healthcare, Arthur also worked for a decade at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, a time he often recalled with pride.
Arthur had a deep love for NASCAR and football, and he maintained a lifelong, hope-filled loyalty to the Cleveland Browns—his favorite team (at least at the beginning of the season) to root for, and occasionally shake his head at.
But more than anything, his heart belonged to his family.
He is survived by his daughter, Bridgette Kovacevich (Christopher), and their daughters Ava, Grace, and Madeline; his stepdaughter, Heather Palestra (Damon); his brothers, Norman Tanner (Patty), Roy Tanner, and David Tanner; his sisters, Mary Tanner and Wilma Jones (Steve); and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Arthur was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Rosa Tanner; his sisters, Barbara Lehman (Richard) and Brenda Tanner; and his brothers, Paul Tanner Jr. and Terry Tanner.
Arthur will be remembered as a quiet, caring, and deeply devoted man. His most cherished moments were spent with his daughter and granddaughters—especially during their Sunday lunches and many fall weekends spent apple picking together. He’s surely still out there, somewhere, searching for that perfect apple tree.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and caregivers at Summa and Western Reserve Hospital. Their compassionate care during Arthur’s final years brought comfort and peace and will never be forgotten.
A celebration of Arthur’s life will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Hill Funeral Home in Fairlawn, Ohio. Family will receive visitors beginning at 10:00 a.m.
