James C. Martin

James C. Martin, 85 of Findley Lake, N.Y., formerly of Painesville, Ohio, died Dec. 2, 2008 at Golden Living's Alzheimer Care Unit in Cambridge Springs, Pa.

He was born April 3, 1923 in Williamsfield, Ohio, to the late James B. and Charlotte Lee Martin.

Jim grew up in Andover, Ohio, and later joined the Air Force, where he served in World War II. Following his time in the Air Force, Jim joined Prudential Insurance, where he spent the majority of his career as a staff manager. During this time Jim was an active member of the First Congregational Church in Painesville, Ohio and a life member of the Masonic Lake Shore Lodge 307. Following his retirement Jim, and his wife, Vera, moved to Findley Lake, where they became active members of the community. Throughout his retirement Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, remodeling homes, playing cards with friends and helping his neighbors. Jim dedicated many years serving on the board of the Findley Lake Property Owners.

He is survived by two daughters: Beth (Bill) Buckman of Painesville and Mary (Paul Fellinger) Ford of Findley Lake, N.Y.; grandchildren: Andrew Ford of Erie, Pa., Carrie (Jim) Skelton of Glen Ellyn, Ill., Marcie (Joe) Bonanno of Westchester, Ill., and Elizabeth (Ben) Cottrill of Cleveland, Ohio; great-grandchildren: Matthew Skelton, Hannah Skelton, Catherine Bonanno and Amelia Bonnano. Also surviving is sister, Rilla Jean Wing of N. Kingsville, Ohio; and nephew, Byron Bauman of Toronto, Canada.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Vera; his parents and a brother, Lee Martin.

A private memorial celebration of Jim's life will be held by his family.

Memorials in his name can be sent to The Alexander Findlay Community Library, P.O. Box 74, Findley Lake, NY, 14736 or the Findley Lake Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 158, Findley Lake, NY.

Arrangements are being handled by the Spitzer Funeral Home, Sherman, New York.