James Steven Elco, born May 30, 1933, to Steven and Mary Rita Elko, in Cleveland, passed away peacefully at his home on Dec. 9, 2024.
He grew up in Newbury Township, where he excelled in both football and basketball at Newbury High School.
After high school, James moved with his family to Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, where he began an apprenticeship in sheet metal and plumbing. After two years, the family returned to Newbury, where he completed his apprenticeship and became a union sheet metal worker.
James later founded Elco Plumbing and Heating and Elco Construction, where he built homes known for their high quality, often selling before they were even completed. His dedication to excellence made him well-respected in both trades.
James was a dedicated father to his sons, Jim, Greg and Brad, and daughter, Suzanne, teaching them the work ethic and skills that shaped their lives. He was passionate about sharing his knowledge and always made time to mentor his sons and their friends in various aspects of house construction.
In 1978, James and his family moved to Arizona, where he worked for J.B. Rodgers Heating and Air Conditioning at the Mesa Motorola plant.
He loved camping and fishing, especially in northern Arizona, where he spent cherished time with his family. In June 2024, James and Jackie returned to Ohio to be closer to family.
James is survived by his wife, Jackie; sons, Jim (Barbara), Greg (Marlene) and Brad (Penny); stepsons, Brian (Anita) Hehr, Karl (Dot) Hehr and Chris Hehr; grandchildren, Heather (Steve) Nettle, Stefanie (Sam) Jacobs, Jim B. (Anita) Elco, Kristina Weaver, Tony Dinaso Jr., Nikole (Jorge) Coronado; and many great-grandchildren.
He was preceded by his parents and daughter, Suzanne.
Visitation will be held at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon, on Dec. 19, 2024, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at Newbury Center Cemetery, Newbury Township.
James will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, his love for family and the respect he earned from all who knew him. His legacy of hard work, family devotion and generosity will forever be cherished.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.
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