Patrick Dennis Slaven

Patrick Dennis Slaven, age 84, of Brimfield, OH, passed away on April 27, 2026.

He had always said he wanted his obituary to read, simply: “Husband. Father. Teacher.” And he was the epitome of all three. He was the happiest when he was around his family. He also loved traveling and showing his family the world, emphasizing the importance of seeing life from different perspectives. He firmly believed in the importance of education, and its ability to uplift and empower.

Patrick was born January 24, 1942, in Detroit, MI to the late Robert and Ruth (Downey) Slaven. He attended Toledo Central Catholic, followed by Kent State University. During a summer job in college, working on a playground, he met his wife Mary Ann, and they eventually built a life and a home in the area. Patrick worked as an English teacher at Field High School, where he also coached cross country, and later at Archbishop Hoban High School. Patrick loved Shakespeare, and had a quote ready for every situation.

Patrick loved all sports, but none quite like the Ohio State-Michigan football rivalry, attending each November’s game for more than fifty years (rooting for both). He was an avid and accomplished bridge player, and loved playing chess with his family. His favorite pastime was simply meeting new people and connecting with others. He was an avid joke teller who delighted in making others laugh, and he found great joy in the beauty of language, often reciting poetry or teaching ‘SAT words’ to friends and family.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Ann Slaven; children, Mark Slaven (and his wife, Suzanne), Matthew Slaven, and Julie Carlson (and her husband, Quinn); his brother, Richard Slaven (Linda); and his four grandchildren, (Wren, Emily, Elle and Aidan). He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Robert, William and Michael.

A memorial mass and celebration of life will be celebrated on Saturday, June 13 at 11:00 AM at the University Parish Newman Center, 1424 Horning Rd Kent, Ohio 44240. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the University Parish Newman Center in Kent, Ohio.

Services in care of Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 West Main Street, Kent, OH 44240.