James M. Vasil's Obituary
James M. Vasil Jr., a cherished husband, brother, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, at the age of 75 at the Hospice House in Medina, Ohio. Born on August 16, 1949, in Ravenna, Ohio, he spent his childhood and young adult life in Kent, Ohio. James was the loving son of the late James M. Sr., and Maxine (Persing) Vasil, devoted husband of Linda R. (Knippenberg) Vasil, much loved brother to sister Sylvia Bowen Crum (Brian) of Woodsfield, Ohio, cousin to the Butcher family of Ravenna, and brother-in-law , uncle and cousin to the Knippenberg family of Hiram, all of whom will miss his presence deeply.
Jim, known affectionately to his childhood family as Jimbo, graduated from Kent Roosevelt High School in 1967 and went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree at Kent State University. Jim and Linda were introduced in March of 1971 by Jim's childhood friend since kindergarten, Al Schmidt, and his wife Tina, and were married six weeks later on May 1, 1971, a union that lasted 54 years on Earth and will continue into eternity. Jim and Linda and the Schmidt family moved to Gainesville, Florida two years later where Jim fell in love with motorcycling. Jim worked with the Schmitt's roofing company, then in auto parts, and finally as a produce clerk at Publix Supermarkets, where his thoughtful nature and commitment to quality service made him a favorite among both colleagues and customers. He retired at age 62 and in 2019 Jim and Linda were able to return home to Ohio to reside in the beautiful town of Mantua near much loved family.
An adventurous soul, Jim loved motorcycles and the sense of freedom they brought. He and Linda traveled extensively on their bikes, exploring new places and making memories that would last a lifetime.
A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at Fairview Cemetery, St. Rt. 82 in Hiram at 10 a.m. (PLEASE MEET AT THE CEMETERY).
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