Brent E. Combs
MESA - Retired Akron Distr.Chief Brent E. Combs, passed away peacefully at home with his wife Lesa and bloodhound Sherlock by his side in November.
Brent was born in Vincennes, Indiana to parents Robert E. Combs and Rita A. Combs (née Brown). The family moved to the Akron area in 1967. A 1974 graduate of Ellet High School, Brent attended Akron University, worked at Goodyear, then joined the Akron Fire Department in 1978.
As he rose through the ranks, he studied at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, MD. and graduated from the Ohio Fire Executive Programan elite group of selected officers.
Brent was published twice, including the cover story nfpa Journal,”Fire at the Akron Airdock.”
His hobbies included reading, golfing, cars, traveling, more reading, refurbishing old toys and tricking them out for grandchildren, enjoyed snorkeling and in his younger years a certified scuba instructor. He was passionate about Ohio State football and his beloved Browns.
Retiring to Oceanside, Calif. then Mesa, Arizona. He leaves behind his wife Lesa, his son Bryant (Goo) daughter in-law (Dawn), step daughters Olivia (Joseph), Leighann (Dustin), brothers Bruce ( Joyce), Bryan (Deanna) and three grandchildren Chloe, Jasper and Daphne.
A special thanks to Dr. Thomas Shellenberger, MD. and Dr. Donato G. Dumlao along with the supportive care team at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. Gilbert, Arizona.
They gave my Brent the upmost attention and respect. I will always be grateful for them. Brent’s absence will always be deeply felt If there is a special memory you would like to share go to: www.brentisalwaysright.com