James J. Soukup

James “Jim” Joseph Soukup, age 65, passed away on Tuesday, April 20th, 2016 at University Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. Several years ago Jim was diagnosed with MDS, a preleukemia. This past February he underwent a stem cell transplant in hopes of a cure for the disease. The transplant was successful, however, he was susceptible to infection, and an infection is what ultimately led to his passing.

Jim was born on June 19th, 1950 in Cleveland, Ohio to Harry and Trudy Soukup. He grew up in Garfield Heights with his brothers Tom, Bill, and Steve where he was known to cause a lot of trouble in the neighborhood. He attended Benedictine High School and graduated in 1968. After high school he enlisted in the Army where he served our country for two years.

Jim had a passion for selling things and making money. He was a very driven and stubborn person leading him to have much success as a salesman. He also had a love of race horses and was involved in this industry for a number of years. After retiring from full-time work he dabbled in many hobbies, activities, and get rich quick scams.

Between the years of 1976-1980 he became a proud father to three children Jim, Kim, and Lisa. Although he was a proud, supportive, and generous father, he did not change a diaper until 2011 when he first became a grandpa. Being a grandfather to four grandchildren Easton, Briley, Oakley, and Claire was one of his most ultimate joys in life.

Jim enjoyed telling stories big and small, true, and untrue about his tendency to wreak havoc throughout his life. One story that he was exceptionally proud of was his commitment to his 17 years of sobriety. He was an active participant in AA throughout this time learning from others and very often helping others.

No matter how long you have known Jim, or in what capacity, please believe that you mattered to him. To all those who have helped him, prayed for him, spent time with him, or sent positive thoughts his way, know that he appreciated it and was ever so grateful. May you all find comfort in the memories you have of him.

A day of visitation will be held Sunday, April 24th from 12:00-8:00 pm in the Catavalos Funeral Home in Fairlawn, 3653 W Market St. Akron, OH 44333, with a service beginning at 7:00 pm. Burial will take place on Monday, April 25th at 9:15am sharp at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, 10175 Rawiga Rd, Seville, OH 44273. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to either the Akron Intergroup of Alcoholics Anonymous or the Michael H. Flanagan Foundation, which provides support to leukemia and bone marrow transplant patients and families.