MANSFIELD: “Rock of ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in thee.” Rock Of Ages was one of Jim Canning’s favorite hymns. As his family’s spiritual rock, throughout life, Jim learned to lean on Christ for strength and guidance. Serving in two wars and living an honorable life as husband, father and grandfather, Jim found peace and strength in the cleft of the Lord.
No longer laboring in this life, James T. “Jim” Canning passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2015 in Triumph Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was 88.
The son of Charles and Mary (Taylor) Canning, Jim was born September 6, 1926 in Barberton and was graduated from Kenmore High School. Following school, Jim was drafted into the Navy where he served in both World War II and the Korean War. Following an honorable discharge from the Navy, Jim earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business from the University of Akron.
As a credit manager, Jim worked first for BorgWarner and later retired from Mansfield Plumbing Products.
Volunteering to serve as building representative for the Tower Lakes Community, Jim took pride in his neighborhood and enjoyed helping others.
Jim loved sports and followed the Cleveland sports teams. His heart however was in watching college athletics. A devout Ohio State Buckeyes fan, no matter what sports season it was, Jim always cheered for his Buckeyes. He also had an appreciation and fondness for the game of golf.
Jim was well read and educated in regards to WWII events. Reading numerous books and articles on WWII, Jim acquired a wealth of knowledge which he graciously shared with friends and family. He also enjoyed solving crossword puzzles.
Jim was a member of the Toastmasters International and Credit Managers Association. He was also a member of First United Methodist Church in Mansfield where he served on the Finance Board.
On May 17, 1952 he married Eleanor Flesher whom together celebrated nearly 63 years of marriage. Along with Eleanor Jim is survived by four daughters Nancy (David) Green of Olathe, Kansas, Brenda (Rex) Linkenbach of Mansfield, Gerry (Ron) Green of Knoxville, TN, and Christy Daugherty of Mansfield; nine grandchildren Kathryn Crall, Joe, and Abby Green, Grant and Meg Linkenbach, Hailey and Erin Green, and Alex and Carly Daugherty; three great grandchildren Emma and Charley Crall and Cole Daugherty; sister-in-law Elizabeth Payne of Wadsworth; cousins Patricia Kouns and Doris Silleson both of San Diego, CA.
Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his brother David Canning.
The family will receive friends Friday, January 9, 2015 from 4-7 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. Calling hours will resume at the funeral home on Saturday from 12:30 to 1 pm with funeral services beginning at 1pm. Entombment in the mausoleum at Oak Grove Memorial Park will follow, where military honors will be performed by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail.
Memorial contributions to First United Methodist Church or Salvation Army may be made through the funeral home.
Online condolences to the family may be made by visiting:www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
