James F. Mazak

On January 2, 2016, our beloved husband, father, and grandfather was taken from us by pancreatic cancer. 

Born January 18, 1936, he was 79 years old. He graduated from Buchtel High School and the University of Akron, and served his country in the United States Air Force. Jim was employed by the B.F. Goodrich Co., Manager of the Customer Service department /Industrial Products division until its closure. He then worked for the M.F. Murdock Co. and the R.C. Musson Rubber Co. from where he retired in 2004. He was a member of The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, now known as The Community of Christ. 

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Edward and Julia Mazak and mother and father in law, Hans and Madeline Gartner, and niece Sara Mazak. Left to mourn, but cherish all the wonderful, happy memories are his loving and beloved wife of 59 years, Beverly; son and daughter-in-law, David and Bunny Mazak; daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Brian Leon; son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Aimee Mazak; his adored grandchildren, Chrissy (Scott), Theresa (Jason), Bryant (April), Michael (Hallie) Jacob, Jordan and Hayden. Great-grandchildren, Cali, Nevaeh, Serena, Audrey and Gavin; brother and sister-in-law, Ed and Marcia Mazak; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jon and Diana Gartner; brother-in-law, Richard Gartner; sister-in-law, Denise Gartner; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. 

Jim will be remembered for his devotion to his wife and family, his generosity and his great sense of humor. He was so proud of his grandchildren’s academic and career achievements, sports accomplishments and enjoyed attending their games. He loved taking care of his yard, feeding the birds and other wildlife, and loved spending time visiting with his family and friends. He was an avid fan of the Browns, Buckeyes, Cavs and Indians. 

Our family would like to thank Akron General Visiting Nurse Service and Hospice Home Care. A special thank you to Laura, Steve and Michelle for their loving care and support. 

Funeral service Tuesday, 2 p.m., at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 3553 Northdale Street NW, UNIONTOWN, Ohio 44685 (one block NW of the square of 619 & Cleveland Ave.), with Bill Kinion officiating. Friends and family will be received prior to the service on Tuesday, from 12 noon to 2 p.m., at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Akron where military rites will be conducted. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. 1500 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 200 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 or visit their website pancan.org.