James was a U.S. Navy veteran who served his country proudly. He was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Fort Smith. Through the years James worked in the wholesale hardware business.
He is survived by his sons James Erke and wife Mary and Steve Erke; daughters Brenda Acord and husband Jim; step-son Sam Cooper and wife Terri; step-daughter Sharon Ahlborn; brother Phil Erke; three grandchildren and one great grandchild.
James was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Nylah Erke; his son Brian Erke; and his second wife Joyce Erke.
Funeral services will be 9:00 am Friday, June 17, 2022 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. Burial, with United States Navy Honors, will follow at Forest Park Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
