James R. Van Gorder, Sr.

James R. Van Gorder, Sr.

OBITUARY

James Richard Van Gorder, Sr. “Jim”, age 87, of Willoughby Hills passed away Thursday, September 19, 2024 at Hospice of the Western Reserve in Cleveland, OH. What a journey! He is with Jesus now. He was born October 1, 1936, in Geneva, OH to the late Franklyn and Mae (nee Pudder) Van Gorder.Jim attended Chagrin Falls where he graduated in 1955. High school years were good to Jim where he played football for four years. Jim served in the US Navy from 1956-1958, traveling the ocean on an aircraft carrier. He worked as a cabinet maker, carpenter and master craftsman most of his life, which he started in high school. He formed company “Van Gorder & Sons Fine Woodworking” in the early 1990s. Jim liked to work in his yard, the Cleveland Browns, and traveling with his wife to see many of the highlights in several states in the USA.Jim will be sadly missed by his wife Marla Mary, of 45 years, as well as his sons Jim, Jr. (Bridget deceased) Jay (Janine), Rob Van Gorder; stepson Ken (Barbie) Uram; daughters Leslie (Bob) Dick, Lisa (Rick) Wilson; and sister Joyce (John) White. As of last count, he had 15 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his sister Barbara (Don) Cannon; stepsons Christopher “Chris” and Russell “Rusty” Uram.There will be visitation on Wednesday September 25th at 10 AM and a celebration of life at 11 AM at his church, Christian Assembly, 25595 Chardon Rd, Richmond Hts. OH 44143 , where Pastor Alan and his wife, Mary, Schrader will conduct services.In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Christian Assembly.