James R. Deck

James R. Deck, age 81, of Conneaut, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 1, 2024, at UH Conneaut Medical Center.

Jim was born on October 3, 1942, in Conneaut, the son of John II and Marie (Middlekauff) Deck. Jim was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

Jim was a 1960 graduate of St. John High School and attended Erie Institute of Technology, earning a degree in metallurgy. He started his work career at the former Exomet (Foseco), spending most of his career there except for a few years working at Diamond Shamrock in Mentor. His great career at Foseco took him from the pipelines of Alaska to the Caribbean. He retired as Plant Manager of Foseco’s Conneaut facility after more than 40 years of service to the company.

Jim was an active member of Corpus Christi Parish, participating in the Men’s Fellowship Group and volunteering many hours over the years to help in any way he could. Jim had a lifelong passion for boating. He spent many hours on Lake Erie, whether it was enjoying an evening cruise or catching perch with family and friends. His love for boating was only matched by his enthusiasm for traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii. Jim and his beloved Kathy spent winters in Discovery Harbor, HI for more than 20 years, creating unforgettable memories with family and friends who visited them.

But above all, Jim cherished his family. He looked forward to all the large family gatherings at his house throughout the years, whether it was hosting the traditional Christmas Eve dinner or helping to make pizzas for the Christmas Parade. He especially loved the time spent watching his grandsons’ school and sporting events. His kindness will be deeply missed by all who know him.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn Ann Anthony Deck (2018) whom he married May 22, 1965, at St Frances Cabrini Church, his daughter Karen Deck Vendetti (1995), his parents, brother-in-law Bill Schraml, and sister-in-law Susan Deck.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Kristen (Greg) Myers; brother John III (Sylvia) of East Claridon, OH; sister Mary Jo Schraml of Cascade, CO; brother Charlie (Beth) Deck of Conneaut, OH; and three grandchildren, Owen Myers, Truman Myers, and Cooper Myers. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 744 Mill St, Conneaut, with Fr. Philip Miller officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Conneaut.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions in Jim’s memory be made to Corpus Christi Building Fund or a charity of their choice; envelopes will be available at the church or the Raisian Funeral Home, 581 Harbor Street, Conneaut, Ohio 44030 where arrangements have been entrusted.

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