James E. Merriner

James E. Merriner, 79, passed over into the Kingdom of Heaven on January 29, 2012, winning his battle over cancer in the glory of his journey. Jim retired from Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company after 40 years of service. He attended Goodyear Heights Community Church. Jim enjoyed fishing with his buddies the 2 Johns and Gary at Mosquito Lake every spring, woodworking and cabinet making (as evident in his home and his family's and friend's homes), auto body work. He was a "Jack of all trades" and "Master of most", but most of all, he loved his family and friends unconditionally. Preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Lena Merriner; sister, Joan Lorraine; infant son, Michael Timothy; and son, Dion Patrick. Survivors include his treasured wife, Ruth, of 59 years; son, James, Jr. (Pam); daughter, Kimberly (Ed) Wyatt; grandchildren, Eddie, Jr. and Jenna Wyatt, James, III, and Matthew Merriner; great-granddaughter, Kaylin Jodi Wyatt; brothers, Richard (Margaret), Thomas (Patricia), Charles (Sue), and Terry; sister, Cheryl (Mihai) Ivascu; aunt, Geraldine Quesenberry; brothers and sisters-in-law of the Shew family, Harold (Marion), Owen (Lenore), Vaughn (Bob), Alfred (Sue), Helen; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and special friends, Pete and Rick. Calling hours will be Saturday, February 4, Noon-2 pm, at NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, with a memorial service to follow at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.