James R. Gatesman, age 78, of Marion, passed away peacefully on Monday evening November 10, 2014 in Marion.
Jim was born in Oil City, Pennsylvania on June 26, 1936, the son of the late Clarence and Alice (Schmader) Gatesman.
Jim graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in Oil City. After high school, he enlisted with the United States Air Force where he proudly served his country as an Aero Medical Specialist.
On January 23, 1960, Jim was united in marriage to Barbara J. Carey in Celina, Ohio. Together they have cherished 54 loving years of marriage.
Jim was a devoted and conscientious employee. His career was spent with GTE (Verizon); moving to several different cities during his tenure with the company from which he retired. Retirement meant more time to devote to a new vocation. Jim obtained his Realtor’s license and worked the last 15 years for Coldwell Banker Realty Plus. He was very involved in the Ohio Association of Realtors. In recent years, Jim could be found spending time at the Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home. Jim greeted those who came to the funeral home with his warm smile and compassion that put everyone at ease.
Jim loved people and it showed. Anyone who spent time with Jim loved and respected him. He had many stories and opinions to share and was passionate about the things he believed in and felt strongly about. He was a proud husband, father and grandfather who treasured his family and would often share stories and pictures of their many accomplishments. Jim was a member of the St. Mary Catholic Church.
Those who remain to honor his memory include his devoted wife Barbara J. Gatesman; his devoted children: Linda (Brad) Green, Karen (Gary) Doss and James R. (Melissa) Gatesman, Jr.; loving grandchildren: Andy (Jeanette) O’Dell, April (Wes) Bales, Adam (Ashley) Green, Samantha (Derek) Fyffe and Randall Gatesman; great grandchildren: Noah, Gabby, Brody, Skout, Grayson and Oaklie; Sister Lois Hepfinger; and Step-brother Robert Gatesman.
He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Marilyn Hopwood.
Funeral services will be held privately for the family.
If so desired and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association, 1950 Arlingate Ln. Columbus, OH 43228.
The Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is proud and honored to be serving Jim’s family and condolences may be expressed to his family by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
About Marion Online Obituaries
