(Respected Member Of Swanton Community)
Charles “Doc” H. Blayz, a highly skilled and respected brick mason and member of the Swanton community, passed away peacefully Thursday afternoon, March 26, 2026, at The Flower Hospital in Sylvania, Ohio, with his daughter Beth at his bedside.
Doc was born on Oct. 20, 1933, in Toledo, Ohio to Cyril and Margaret (Hallett) Blayz. Doc’s life was defined by hard work, dedication, and an enduring commitment to those around him.
A 1952 graduate of Swanton High School, Doc embarked on a remarkable career as a brick mason. He worked for S.A. Storer & Sons Company for an impressive 53 years, retiring at the age of 70 as the company’s longest-serving employee.
His craftsmanship was a testament to his skill and diligence, earning him membership in Local Unions 23 and 3. Throughout his life, Doc contributed to the Swanton community by taking on many side jobs, demonstrating a generosity and a readiness to lend his expertise wherever needed.
Doc’s reputation extended beyond his professional achievements. Known affectionately by his nickname, “Doc,” he had a gruff exterior that disguised his soft heart.
Always ready to help, he was a great neighbor who would do anything for anyone. He will be remembered as one of the strongest, most hardworking people around — right up to the very end. His daily routines included reading The Toledo Blade cover to cover and joining the coffee klatch at the Swanton McDonald’s, catching up on the latest town gossip.
In his later years, you could find Doc driving around in his black Chevy Silverado, inspecting the brickwork of not only his work, but fellow masons to see how well their projects were standing the test of time.
He loved golf, maintaining his rental properties, mowing lawns, and spending leisure moments at the Cannaley Treehouse Village, watching cyclists navigate the trails with quiet appreciation.
Being a huge sports fanatic, Doc could talk your ear off about sports, especially football. Family was central to Doc’s life. He married his beloved wife, Carol Sue Hiser, with whom he shared many cherished years.
Doc is survived by his daughter, Beth Blayz (Chuck Seel), who have both been a steadfast presence in his life following the death of his wife Carol and his three children, Jeff Blayz, Brenda Blayz and Jennifer Blayz-Riebesel. Doc’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Gretchen (Jason) Lortz, Mindy (Adam) Langenderfer, and John (Chasity) Riebesel, and his great-grandchildren, Olivia and Madison, and of course his beloved granddog fur baby, Shamaeeka; his best buddy and neighbor, Sam Onweller; and many nieces and nephews.
Besides his wife and his children, Doc was preceded in death by his parents, Cyril and Margaret Blayz; his grandson, Jeremy Bucher; his sister, Mary Kemp; and his brother, Robert “Hap” Blayz.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 31, from 3-7 p.m. at the Weigel Funeral Home in Swanton, where services for Doc will begin at 7 p.m., with Pastor Maryanne Reimund officiating. Private graveside services will take place Thursday, April 1, at St. Richard’s Cemetery.
Beth and Chuck express a special thank you to dad’s neighbors for all they did always looking out for him throughout the years.