James Clement Sopko

He graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Louisville, OH in 1973 and Walsh College in Canton, Ohio in 1977.

Jim worked in the family grocery business that was started by his parents. He and his brother, Richard eventually took over the family business, Four Sons, working side by side each other for many years. Following his retirement from the grocery store, Jim worked part time in merchandising resets in grocery stores.

As a 20-year brain tumor survivor, Jim embraced each day with gratitude and joy, determined to live life to the fullest. He cherished time with his family, often found fishing at Chautauqua Lake, cooking over the fire pit, or smoking all sorts of meats to share with loved ones. His mornings began with five-mile walks through the neighborhood, followed by diving into one of the many novels he devoured each week. Jim had a zest for new experiences, whether traveling with his grandkids, cheering them on at sporting events, or perfecting his newly discovered passion for baking cookies. He was a steadfast supporter of dog rescue groups and a man who never met a stranger - always ready with a helping hand and a warm smile.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Clement and Mary Sopko.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Teresa Sopko; Jen (daughter) and Ben Cline; Ed (son) and Heidi Sopko; grandchildren Ethan and Lily Cline; Dean and Evangeline Sopko; brothers Richard (Elaine) Sopko, Thomas (Joyce) Sopko, and Robert Sopko; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to attend mass at St. Andrew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, August 21 at 10:45am. Inurnment will immediately follow at St. Andrew’s after mass.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jim’s name to Angels Among Us at Duke University at https://www.supportdukehealth.org/site/TR/Angels/AngelsAmongUs?team_id=32107&pg=team&fr_id=3071