Obituary of Dennis Larry Kortyka

Dennis Larry Kortyka, 73, of North Kingsville, passed away peacefully, Saturday, May 9, 2020 at UH- Geneva Medical Center. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 50 years, Donna; children, Dedra (Ed) Trenn, and Darrin (Leah) Kortyka; grandchildren, Emilee and Eden Trenn, and Gavin Kortyka; and brothers, Michael (Wendy) Kortyka and Richard (Sherri) Kortyka. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents. Dennis was born March 24, 1947 in Ashtabula, the son of the late Louis and Lavon (Buck) Kortyka. He graduated from Edgewood High School Class of 1965, then went on to earn his bachelor's degree in Art Education from Ohio University. Afterword, Dennis earned his master's degree in Art from Edinboro University. Dennis married the love of his life Donna Arnold on September 6, 1969. Mr. Kortyka taught Art at Buckeye Local Schools for 42 years. This is where he was able to share his talent and passion for art with young people throughout the district and community. His inspiration was a catalyst that drove a passion for art for many future artists, many of which still stayed in touch with him. Teacher and mentor, Dennis formed cherished friendships with other great teachers, as well as students who would carry their love of art into their adult lives. Over the years Dennis not only taught art but created beautiful artworks that were often displayed during his own exhibits at the Ashtabula and Conneaut Arts Centers. His works included paintings and photography, with light houses, barns, covered bridges, and the night sky being of particular subjects of interest. His sculptures have included life size wood carvings of carousel animals including several horses, a unicorn, a lion and a full-sized baby giraffe… several a gift to family members for special occasions. Serving his community was a keystone of Dennis's life. He was a member of the North Kingsville Fire Department for over 20 years, leading the department as Fire Chief for several years of his service. It was during this time that Dennis forged some of his strongest and lifelong friendships. Afterword he devoted 20 years to the Village of North Kingsville as Councilman. Dennis was also a trustee for the Kingsville Public Library and was a member of the North Kingsville Presbyterian Church. When Dennis wasn't teaching, serving his community, and spending time with his family, he enjoyed several hobbies including making hand-crafted furniture, studying the stars through his high-powered telescope, and researching World War I, especially the lives of our country's first airmen. Dennis had a passion for sailing and was a member of the local Sea Scouts when he was in high school. He went on to share that love with his family who often sailed Lake Erie in their 12-foot sailboat. Everyone Dennis touched, especially his family and friends, will always remember him by his quick-witted sense of humor. He always enjoyed sharing a joke and making everyone around him laugh and smile. Dennis will also be remembered for his love of animals, especially his many dogs that walked with him throughout his lifetime. More than anything, his family will remember how much he loved them, which he showed them each day of his life. The public is invited to gather at Edgewood High School on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 starting at 1:30PM, where a procession to Greenlawn Memory Gardens will form in honor of his memory; procession will leave at 2:00PM. In front of the mausoleum at Greenlawn Memory Gardens, his family and a small memorial tribute for Dennis will be present to pay respects as the procession drives through. No public services will be observed in keeping with safe practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League, 5970 Green Rd., Ashtabula, Ohio 44004 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601. Ducro Funeral Services and Crematory, 4524 Elm Ave., Ashtabula is handling arrangements. Visit www.ducro.com to leave an online condolence for the family.