James R. Coalmer

Boardman: There will be funeral services on Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 11:00am at Bethel Lutheran Church, 425 Crestview Drive, Boardman for James R. Coalmer, 78, who passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2013 at Omni Manor Nursing Home.

Jim was born October 2, 1934 in Youngstown the son of the late Blair and Ruth (Eberman) Coalmer and was a lifelong area resident.

He graduated Wilson High School in 1953. He briefly attended Youngstown State before enlisting in the Navy. He served on the U.S.S. Leyte as an aerial photographer. The captain of the ship honored Jim for his outstanding photos that captured the history of the Korean Conflict during his tour of duty. During his service to the Navy, Jim married his high school sweetheart, the former Carol Jean McKnight on June 22, 1955. They were happily married for 57 years. This union created four children.

After his military service, Jim worked at Koppers Company in Youngstown until 1988. He was honored during his time at Koppers for his community service.

Jim was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church. He served as usher for many years. In addition, he was a member of the men's Brotherhood Group.

He belonged to the Poland Masonic Lodge #766 for over 45 years. He served on the fellowcraft team for many years. He became a member of the Aut Mori Grotto, he was known by the name "Brady the clown". Jim actively participated in Aut Mori Grotto Circus for 36 years, where he always wanted to put smiles on the young and old. In 1997, he was Prophet of the Year. Jim was also a member of VFW Post 7599 in Transfer, PA. He was a past member of the Saxon Club as well.

Jim is survived by his wife, Carol J. McKnight and children Karrie Sue (Mark) Taylor of Greenford, Ohio, Lorrie Lee (Allen) Todd of Divide, Colorado, Carlene Jean (Richard) Chapella of Lexington, South Carolina, Russell James (Lorraine) Coalmer of Canfield, Ohio. Grandchildren, Tarrah Todd, Nathan Todd, Kara Taylor, Brayton Taylor, Taylor Mahanna, Carley Mahanna, Cohan Chapella,Madeleine Coalmer, and Matthew Coalmer, a sister Linda (James) Jenkins of Boardman, Ohio, and sister-in-law Kay Sandrock of Boardman. He leaves several nieces and nephews. Jim was a devoted husband, dad and papa who deeply loved his family.

Special thanks to the staff at Omni Manor, especially the east wing for the care, love and support they gave Jim and his family.

Family and friends may call on Friday, March 8, 2013 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Thompson Funeral Home, Boardman and on Saturday one hour prior the funeral service at Bethel Lutheran Church.

The family requests material contributions take the form of donations to the Bethel Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 425 Crestview Drive Boardman 44512.

Please visit www.Thompsonfh1932.com to view this notice and send condolences.