Dennis Allen Cannon

Dennis was a driving force in visual art and art education. He was passionate about the arts and gave much of his professional and personal life to the Ohio Art Education Association (OAEA) serving many roles including offices which led him to the highest seat of leadership as President. Dennis was honored by OAEA for his service as Art Educator of the Year and Distinguished Fellow. Dennis was a founder of the Ohio Art Education Foundation in 2001, and served as President and Treasurer. Dennis also served on the Board of the Ohio Alliance for Arts Education. Dennis was a mentor and treasured friend to art educators and art education advocates through his leadership and passion for art and the success of students and teachers.

Dennis Allen Cannon, 77, was born on December 19, 1946 to Cornelius Allen and Helen Ruth (Brandt) Cannon. Dennis graduated in 1964 from Mansfield Malabar High School where he was a proud member of the Marching Band. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Art Education and later a Master’s Degree in Education from Ashland University. He completed a PhD. in Art Education from The Ohio State University where he was an Adjunct Professor in the Art Department. Dennis began his career as an Art Teacher at Lexington Junior High for several years, then became a Gifted Coordinator for Richland County Board of Education and Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center.

Dennis is survived by two children, Scott (Jenn) Cannon from Surprise, Arizona and Stacy Cannon from Mansfield. Scott has continued his father’s love of art and Stacy has followed in his footsteps to become a teacher. He also has three granddaughters, Bailey, McKenzie, and Sydney all from Surprise, Arizona.

Dennis loved the arts, especially art history and stained glass. He often shared his knowledge of the art world and his talents with his family, children, and granddaughters.

Dennis is survived by partner Thomas Fuller. Dennis loved musical theater and traveling.

Friends may join the family for Visitation on Thursday July 11, 2024 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St, Mansfield, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, July 12, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 60 Mulberry St., Mansfield, Ohio. A Celebration of Dennis’ Life will occur at a later date as well for family and friends on July 27, 2024 by invitation.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ohio Art Education Foundation, c/o The Columbus Foundation; Lois Flinn Arts Education Fund, at the Mansfield Art Center; or Gorman Nature Center, Mansfield, Ohio.

Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield is honored to serve the Cannon family.