Joseph Traverse

J. Harold Traverse (Hal) died peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a four year struggle with Alzheimer's Disease. Hal was born in Cleveland Ohio to J. Harold and Florence (James) Traverse on December 31 1930. He shared a birth date with his wife's father and his granddaughter Maggie. Hal attended Lakewood Ohio schools and graduated from John Carroll University. As an ROTC graduate he entered the service as a 2nd Lieutenant and served in Europe in the Civil Affairs and Military Government Divisions. He began his business career with General Tire serving as store manager in various cities. He also worked for Dunlap Tire before joining the Fleet Divisions of Ford Motor Co. and Mileage Consultants. Hal was a great athlete enjoying swimming and hockey in his youth and tennis in later years. He was active in the John Carroll Alumni chairing several class reunions. He also served as head usher at St. Sebastian Church and president of Fairlawn Swim and Tennis. Survivors include his loving wife Ann; his son Dr. Jay Traverse (Sarah) of Minneapolis MN ; his daughter Julie Smerdel (Michael) of Dublin OH; and his daughter Michelle Huber (Michael). He also leaves his much loved grandchildren Aidan and Shea Traverse Annmarie and Margaret Smerdel and Matthew Grant and Ryan Huber. Family vacations at the Outer Banks attending his grandchildren's sporting events and Friday night dinners were among his favorite activities. Mass of Christian Burial will take Tuesday June 19 2012 at 9:30 AM at St. Sebastian Church. Private interment in Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. Friends may call on Monday from 4-7 PM at Hummel Funeral Home 500 E. Exchange St. Donations may be made to St. Sebastian Parish Foundation or The Christ Child Society.