James (Jim) Winston Lear aged 88 years, passed away Wednesday May 2, 2018 surrounded by his family. He was born in Pontiac, Michigan on October 5, 1929 to the late Wayne P. Lear and Alice Jarrett Lear. Jim was raised in North Canton and graduated from North Canton High School where he played football. During the Korean Conflict, Jim was stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army. An avid card player, he could be found most evenings in a card game at either Fraternal Order of Eagles or Amvets of Canton. After retiring from Portec in Canton, he enjoyed annual trips with his brother to Las Vegas and Florida.
He was preceded in death by his wife Nancy (Simmons) Lear, his ex-wife Elaine Lear, sons James W. Lear ll, Steven Simmons and Jim’s younger brother Larry Lear. He is survived by his children Lynda Lear and Deborah (Jay) Koval, Bill (Annette) Simmons, Bob Lear and daughter-in-law Iris Simmons. Grandchildren are B.J. Lear, Nate (Carrah) Lear, Jeff (Kalyn Kappelman) Bowen, Crystal (Donnie) Hall, Vanessa (Mike) Spencer, Ashley Riley, Patrick Simmons, Tiffany Simmons and Stevie Simmons. Great grandchildren are Ryan Lear, Summer McMerrell, Jaimie Hall, Zach Koval, Ethan Spencer, Anneslee Riley, Wesley Riley, Alec Simmons, Evin Simmons, Mila Simmons, Alyssa Simmons and Nate Simmons. Also survived by loving nieces and nephews.
Jim was a good man and he will be missed by his family and friends.
The family would like to thank the staff at The Landing of Canton and the Aultman Compassionate Care Center at Woodlawn for their dedicated service.
Calling hours are scheduled for 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, May 7, 2018 at the Karlo-Libby Funeral Home located at 5000 Everhard Road, Canton, Ohio. Funeral Services are planned for 11:00 AM, Tuesday May 8, 2018 at the Karlo-Libby Funeral Home to be followed by graveside services at Sunset Hills Memory Gardens located at 7920 Frank Avenue, North Canton, Ohio.
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