James Plavney

James Michael Plavney, affectionately known as "Old Man Plav", passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 11, 2023 surrounded by loved ones at the age of 80. He was born March 19, 1943 in Mahoning, PA. As a child, he was the first male patient in the US to successfully undergo open heart surgery to repair a PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus), in simplest terms, an opening in both major blood vessels leading to the heart. Doctor's did not expect him to exceed the age of 7, but he beat the odds, as he had so many times throughout his life.

His family later moved to Maple Heights, OH where he spent most of his childhood. He was enlisted in the Army National Guard and served at Fort Leonard Wood, MO from October 1964 thru October 1970, when he was honorably discharged. James was ranked as an E-2 Private, weapons demolition specialist and Expert Rifleman. His interests as a young man included drag racing and auto repair. His prized vehicle was a 1966 Ford Fairlane which he competed with regularly at local & regional drag races and is currently on display at a Unique Classic Car Museum.

On April 11, 1980, he married the love of his life, Sue. He accepted her 2 children Larry and Alicia as his own, in 1983, they had their daughter Lindsey completing their family.

James had been a Geauga County resident since that time. He was employed by Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools for 20+ years as a bus mechanic/ substitute bus driver. Upon retiring in 2001, he spent his summers camping at Eagle Rock Campground in Tionesta, PA along the Allegheny River - where he and Sue would enjoy their days watching wildlife, and nights sitting around the campfire with great friends. Fishing was his main passion at the time, he was then lovingly referred to as "No Fish Jim" by all of his friends become family at the campground.

Jim is survived by his children Larry (Jennifer) Ramona, Alicia (Scott) Bares and Lindsey (fiancé Jerry Rickard) Plavney; 5 grandchildren: Cameron, Tanner, Logan, Carson, and Cassidy; and his beloved dog daughter Sassy.

He was preceded in death by his brother Robert Plavney and sister Gail (Simeon) Pestich, nephew Michael Pestich, as well as his parents Pearle and Bruno Plavney. He had also suffered the painful loss of his loving wife, Sue Ann Plavney on January 4, 2016. His living siblings include Cedric (Eloise) Plavney, Crystal (Russ) Butch, and Mitchell Plavney.

He will be greatly missed by many extended family members, nieces, nephews and friends. A special thank you to his nieces, Sue (Ron) Pestich Clerico and Debra (Paul) Plavney Priebe for their love and support in his final hours.

He was a kind and giving soul who could always be counted on for anything within his power to give. A firm but loving Dad and Grandpa, we are comforted that he is now at peace and reunited with our Mom Sue.

To honor Jim’s final wishes a private family memorial is planned.

"This is my wish for you: Comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your heart, hugs when spirits sag, beauty for your eyes to see, friendships to brighten your being, faith so that you can believe, confidence for when you doubt, courage to know yourself, patience to accept the truth, love to complete your life." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson