James F. Brenner

James F. Brenner passed away June 5, 2020 at the age of 76 at The Heights Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Broadview Heights, Ohio. He was the cherished son of the late Harvey Brenner and the late Louise (Dring) Brenner, devoted brother of the late Beverly Brenner and Robert (Cindy) Brenner, loving uncle of Lawrence (Rabat Baimatova) Caplan, adoring great uncle of Altyani and Benjamin Caplan. Dear cousin of Jim (Pamela) Meltzer, Lauren (Norton) Winer, Dale (Annette) Brenner, Carol (George) Stern, Judy (Norman) Young, Jana (Dan) Clark and Michael Dring.

Jim obtained a BA in psychology from Ohio University and began his career as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. He then went to work for 9 years at U.S. Truck & Equipment Company as office manager. Jim will best be remembered, however, as a musician.

Starting with the Gretsch Guitar his father gave him for High School Graduation in 1962, he learned many well-known Folk songs along with every single Beatles song. In college in 1965 he saw the Stanley Brothers and quickly turned to the 5-String Banjo, which he later taught at The Fairmount School of Music in Cleveland Hts. Brenner played in several bluegrass bands, most notably “Lost Bob and The Ozone Ramblers” and his own group, “The Bottom Line.” He also did session work for Alan Cassaro (aka: Al Leatherwood), and in 1979 The Bottom Line backed up Josh Graves, from the Flatt & Scruggs Band.

Jim’s love of music led him to collect not only multiple stringed instruments but also PA Equipment. Soon he had enough to create his own sound system and eventually, with partners, his own sound company. At the time there were few companies specializing in amplifying acoustic instruments.

Most of his friends will remember Jim for his quirky personality. He was forgetful, always late, and a bit clumsy. He had wanderlust and seemed at times to disappear. A famous Nashville musician nicknamed him “The Rainman,” while others compared him lovingly to “Mr. Magoo.” His idiosyncrasies were more confusing than upsetting, but more often amusing and endearing. Jim was above all a really nice guy, always interested in how everyone else was doing. For a while there will be void without him, but soon memories of his music and his smiles will fill that gap.

A private family services were held and Family requests no visitation. Friends who wish may send Donations to the Northeast Ohio Musical Heritage Association either online at www.neomha.org/support/donate or checks may be sent to NEOMHA, 10848 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland OH 44094. NEOMHA is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.