Dennis Paul Rothermel

He was born May 12, 1968, in Canton, Ohio, to parents Paul Wilbert and Vena Pearl (Bowers) Rothermel. Dennis graduated from Waterloo High School and Stark State College. He spent many dedicated years in the Portage County Treasurer’s Office as Chief Deputy Treasurer.

More than anything, Dennis was a man of the outdoors. He found his greatest joy in nature—whether he was deep in the woods during deer season or out on the lake with a fishing rod in hand. Hunting and fishing weren’t just hobbies for Dennis—they were a way of life, a time to reflect, and a chance to be close to the people and places he loved. He had a deep respect for the land and passed that love on to his children through countless early mornings teaching them how to master the hunt.

But his greatest pride and joy came later in life when he became a grandfather—his cherished role as "Paw Paw." Dennis lit up around his grandson Grayson. He would talk endlessly about him, his eyes always filled with pride. Every day, nothing brought him more happiness than holding Grayson in his arms, already dreaming about taking him fishing for the first time or teaching him how to track a trail through the woods.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Bonnie (Mantzell) Rothermel. Their enduring partnership was a testament to Dennis' deep devotion, as he cherished every moment spent with Bonnie, from quiet evenings at home to shared adventures that filled their lives with joy. His love for her was unwavering, a cornerstone of his existence that he expressed through thoughtful gestures and steadfast support. He leaves behind his cherished children, Lexi Rothermel and Hunter Rothermel, whom he adored with boundless pride and affection. Dennis is also survived by his precious grandson Grayson Rothermel. His memory lives on with his many loving family members, including his siblings:  Daniel (Jeanette) Rothermel, Denise (Don) Long, Duane Rothermel, and Dorothy (Patrick) Durst, who will forever treasure the time they shared; his nephews: Jimmy Rothermel and John Rothermel - his best hunting buddies with whom he shared an unbreakable bond - Dylan Slaughter, and Mike Wise; his sister-in-law Heidi (Jason) Yasment; and his friend Billy Price, whose friendship was a gift that spanned decades.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, his brother David Rothermel, and his sister Delores Rothermel.

Those who knew Dennis will remember his quick wit, infectious laugh, and the way he could light up any room with his larger-than-life personality. If you were lucky enough to be in his circle, you knew that he would always make you feel welcome—ready with a joke, a story, or a helping hand. Dennis was fiercely loyal to those he loved, and he’d stand by you no matter what. He will be missed more than words can say, but his love for family, his deep-rooted joy in the outdoors, and his unforgettable spirit will live on in every trail walked, every fish caught, and every laugh shared.