James H. Stetler, Jr.

Reverend James H. Stetler, 85, escaped the confines of his earthbound form in the early morning hours of August 21, 2018 in the Coventry Township home he shared with his beloved wife, Bonnie Jean, the love of his life, who cared for him for the last 47 years all the way through to his final moments.

Jim Stetler was born in Akron, Ohio on April 8, 1933 to Olive and James H. Stetler, Sr.  He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard, and sister, Carol Palmer.  He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Jean (Harris); his five children, Suzette (Joe) Locklear; Juli Carter, Jim Stetler III, Mary Cull Hoernig and Jake (Ratchada “Aom”) Stetler.  He was a fun and vibrant grandfather to 16 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.  

His family extends well beyond his many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and other blood relatives, through his church family and through the community as he was a father-figure, mentor, brother, and friend to a multitude of others. 

He played football for the Browns Athletic Club in Cleveland through the 1960’s and remained a loyal and frustrated Browns fan for life. He enlisted in the United States Navy for four years, and served in the Naval Reserves for 32 years where he achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He worked at Ohio Edison for 38 years. In 1985, he graduated with honors from the business management program at The University of Akron. He then took on the role of director of training at the Massillon training center. After retirement, he went through Seminary to become ordained and was an associate Pastor at Cornerstone Church on Killian Rd.  He was known around the city of Akron to be a man for others, a Promise Keeper, a Kingdom Builder and a contributor at Jesus Said.  He was always spreading the good word about his lord and savior Jesus Christ.  He longed for the day when he would be welcomed into the warm embrace of his redeemer and hear the words “Well done! Good and faithful servant!”  

A celebration of a life well lived will be held at 11 A.M. on Monday, August 27, 2018 at Schermesser Funeral Home, 600 East Turkeyfoot Lake Road (SR 619), Akron, Ohio 44319 with Rev. Brenda Young officiating.  Burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park.  Family and friends may call on Sunday from 1 to 4 P.M. at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made in James’ name to Cornerstone Church, 2717 S. Arlington Rd., Suite C, Akron, Ohio 44312.  To leave a special message for the family, please visit our website at www.schermesserfh.com.

SCHERMESSER
(330) 899-9107
www.schermesserfh.com

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