James M. Kilmire

It was confirmed today, God really does send Angles to earth, then call them home when their errands are done. James Michael Kilmire has passed away at the age of 65. Imagine the son everyone wished for, the brother everyone needed, the husband everyone dreams of, the dad everyone adored, the grandpa everyone should have, the uncle everyone admired, the friend everyone cherished, a smile you couldn't resist, and a laugh that was contagious….then you can imagine Jim. Jim was born September 9, 1947 the 6th of 9 children of Joseph and Flora Kilmire. He grew up in North Hill, Akron. Jim served in the US Army with two tours of duty in Vietnam. A true advocate for the American Veteran, POW/MIA "You are not forgotten". Leaving the military as a Staff Sgt.

Jim began a 35 year career with Saint Gobain (Norton Co.) at their Gilchrist Road location. Also while at Saint Gobain, Jim realized dreams really do come true, when he met the love of his life Janie Francis. Together they lived a true love story that would shame your bestselling novel. Each truly believing the other was more important than life itself. After a short engagement of nearly 25 years, they wed. You could spot his home without a house number, just by his manicured lawn. His flag flowing proudly outside, his signature spotless Chevy truck in the drive or on special occasions his baby blue caddy that matched his magical blue eyes. He cared sweetly for his lilies and rosebushes. Nearly every bird, squirrel and chipmunk in Northeast Ohio had a meal at his home. Jim had a love for Fire Trucks and Classic Cars, with a collection that would be every collector's envy.

Jim always lived with an open heart and helping hand extended. No matter how gray the sky, he would always offer you the logic of a brighter side. He was his Wife's dream come true, His daughter's first love and His Son's First Hero. And some even believed he was Santa!

Rejoicing as this arrival are his parents Joseph and Flora; Brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Ann; Sisters, Laura Brunecke, Bonnie Hegedeos and Pam (Jackie) Daley; Brother-in-law, Jim Ball; Mother-in-law Hendrina Giannantonio Benner; four legged children , Puppy Mandy and Kitty Presto. Stricken in sadness and awaiting their reunion with Jim, are, his devoted and loving wife, Janie; his children, daughter, Kim (Andy) Coleman with grandchildren, Cole and Rachel; Daughter, Christy (Matt) Sorboro with grandchildren, Andrew, Issi, Jilli and Aubree; son, James Kilmire with grandsons, Tristian and Noah; daughter, Paulette Kilmire with grandson, Jaden; daughter, Carlie (Kris) Zukas with grandson, Zack; son, Erik Francis. His loyal companion, Lucky Cat; two brothers, Dennis (Dannett) and Larry Kilmire; sisters, Judi (Pau) Slaubaugh and Terri (Larry) Rocco; brother-in-laws, Anthony (Gemma) Giannantonio and Steve Hegedeos; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Not to be forgotten, a special message from Jim to his co-workers…"Take you're a** back to work!!!" For all my family and friends, "I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one. I'd like to leave an Afterglow of smiles when the day is done." I'd like to leave an echo…Whispering softly down the ways of Happy Times and Laughing Times and Bright Sunny Days. I'd like the tears of those who grieve to dry before to dry before the sun of Happy Memories that I leave behind when day is done."

A special thank you to Judy and Mike from Summa Hospice, for their caring hearts, compassion and understanding. We would like to thank the wonderful team of doctors and nurses he had throughout this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice of Summa.

Family and friends may call on Monday, April 22, from 4-7 p.m. at NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 131 N. Canton Rd., where funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 23 at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Michael Shaub officiating. Interment at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery with full military rites.