James L. Colaner, 86, of Dennison, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, in Park Village Assisted Living at Dover.
Born August 7, 1938, in Massillon, he was the son of the late Louis and Anne (George) Colaner and a lifelong resident of Tuscarawas County. A 1956 graduate of the former Uhrichsville High School, he distinguished himself as an athlete in both football and track. He continued on to study Pre-Engineering at Kent State University.
James dedicated much of his professional life to the former Warner & Swasey, later Gradall at New Philadelphia, where he worked as a Senior Designer. Beyond his career, James was an active member of his community participating in bowling leagues with his co-workers and officiating volleyball games. He possessed a passion for electronics and automobile restoration, often spending his free time working under cars.
James leaves behind a loving family including his three children; Randall (Natalie) Colaner, Debra (Mitchell) Kennedy and Steve (Michelle) Colaner; seven grandchildren, Brooke (Bertle) Trigleth, Chase Colaner, Corey Colaner, Kristin Beabout, Kyler Colaner, Madison Colaner and Makenzi Colaner and many cherished great-grandchildren.
He was the last surviving brother of five Colaner boys and was preceded in death by Larry, Ronnie, Charles and David Colaner.
A private family burial will take place, and it is requested that memorial contributions be directed to his favorite charity, Smile Train by visiting their website https://www.smiletrain.org/about-us and clicking on the donate button. The Geib Funeral Center at Dover has been entrusted with his service arrangements.
Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory
116 Second Street NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663
www.geibfuneral.com
Geib Funeral Service
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
Geib Pet Crematory
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
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