James Allen Bigler, age 52, of Marion, died Thursday afternoon, March 5, 2015, at home surrounded by loving family following a courageous year long battle with cancer.
On August 2, 1962, James was born and raised in Marion, Ohio, and graduated from Marion Harding High School.
Shortly following graduation, James enlisted to serve in the U.S. Navy. He served for 10 years, and was a veteran of the Gulf War, Operation Desert Shield, where he was stationed aboard the USS Trenton. He also served for the National Guard.
Upon his honorable discharge, James returned home to Marion, where he found the love of his life, Claudia Rinehart. They were married on February 28, 1992, and they have cherished their 23 years together.
For over 10 years, James worked in the weld maintenance department at American Honda Motor Company’s Marysville plant. Due to his health, he retired in 2014.
A man of faith, James was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus #671, both in Marion. He also was a member of American Legion Posts #162 and #584 in Marion, and the NRA.
A skilled woodworker, James enjoyed taking on special home projects for his wife, Claudia, with his father-in-law. He also enjoyed making wood crafts, and could make just about anything he set his stubborn mind to.
Always tinkering on cars with his children, James and family especially loved putting special details and striping on their car He also loved fishing.
Most important of all to James was his family. He loved every minute of being surrounded by his beloved wife, children and grandchildren.
Despite being set in his ways, James had his own unique and ornery way of showing you he loved you.
Left to cherish his memory, are his wife, Claudia Bigler; three children: Melinda (Zachary) Dickerson, Robert (Nikole) Bigler, and Stephen (Matthew Polk) Bigler; four grandchildren: Gabriel Dickerson, Greta Dickerson, Christa Bigler and Kelsie Bigler; his sister, Linda Hess; and 3 nieces. Preceded in death by 1 brother Andrew Bigler.
Services for James were observed privately. Burial with military honors provided by the Marion County United Veterans Council were held in Chapel Heights Memory Garden.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cancer Fighters or Marion General Hospital Hospice, and they may be sent to the care of the funeral home.
Gunder/Hall & Folk Funeral Directors, a division of Snyder Funeral Homes, is honored to have been chosen to serve James’ family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
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