The life of Herbert James Behl came to a close at East Ohio Regional Hospital, Martins Ferry, Ohio on Monday, May 21, 2007, where the 2nd floor and I.C.U. Nursing staff rendered merciful, tender care. We thank them with all our hearts.

Herbert James was born in Pontiac, Illinois to Leo Adam Behl and Ina Michael Behl, October 15, 1920.

He graduated from St. Mary Grade School, Pontiac Township High School and the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin. He served as a soldier during World War II. After honorable discharge from the Army, handsome as a Matinee Idol, Herbert married Joan Kaczor from Oco, Ohio at St. Patrick?s Cathedral, Miami Beach, Florida on May 9, 1945. For several years Herbert ran the Toggery Shop bequeathed lovingly to him by his mother Ina. Upon leaving Pontiac with Joan and 4 year old son, James Joseph, venturing to Florida Herbert owned and as a cordial host, industriously operated The Ocean Manor Hotel for 31 years. Upon establishing residency in St. Clairsville, Ohio, Herbert served on the Board of Directors at the Belmont County Museum in Barnesville, Ohio. Herbert - - a dearly beloved, noble, sweet gentleman.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Liturgy and Mass at St. Mary?s Catholic Church in Lafferty, Ohio on Friday at 11 a.m. with Father Chester Pabin the celebrant. There will be a brief visitation at the church prior to the Mass. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lafferty.

Arrangements are being handled by Toothman Funeral Home, St. Clairsville.