Obituary of James Martin Champlin

James “Jim” Martin Champlin, 95, of Ashtabula passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 17, 2018 at the Country Club Retirement Center.

He was born June 6, 1922 in Conneaut, the son of the late Oren Everett and Anna (Michael) Champlin. Jim attended Rowe High School in Conneaut. He excelled playing football and baseball, and running track for the Vikings. He also distinguished himself playing several instruments for the band and orchestra. He was a US Army Air Corps veteran serving our country during WWII.  He married Evelyn Stewart on April 11, 1944, and they remained lifelong area residents.

Jim drove more than 1,000,000 safe miles for Lyons Transportation Lines. After retirement, he drove tour buses in Florida. He was an artist who brought wonder and awe through his superior woodworking ability. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and traveling, but most of all watching the joy of his family grow from his children down through his great-great grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his wife Evelyn; daughters-in-law, Linda Champlin and Nadine Champlin; grandchildren, Stephen (Siddiqua) Champlin, Lisa (Michael) Simmons, Jason Champlin, Julie (George) Collins, Robin (Sanjeev) Moghe, Mark (Heather) Champlin; 15 great-grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Jim Champlin was preceded in death by his sons, Ron (2017) and Lynn Champlin (1991); sisters, Pauline Hoover and Esther Champlin; brothers, Fred, Alfred, Arlin, and Walter Champlin; and twin siblings in infancy; granddaughter Amy Champlin (2009); and great-granddaughter Gabrielle Collins (2004).

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 2:30 PM at Greenlawn Memory Gardens, 3140 Center St., North Kingsville, Ohio 44068.

Should friends desire memorial contributions may be made in his name to Conneaut Historical Railroad Museum, 363 Depot St., Conneaut, Ohio 44030.

Ducro Funeral Services and Crematory, 4524 Elm Ave., Ashtabula is handling arrangements.

www.ducro.com