James "Jim" Joseph Stropkai, age 71, of Colerain, Ohio entered into eternal peace with the Lord, Sunday August 16th.

A devoted husband of 47 years to his beloved wife Nancy (Sikora) Stropkai, Loving Father to two children, Jamie (Pat) Sweeney, of Athens, Ohio, and Joseph (Tia) Stropkai, of Lewis Center, Ohio, and an adorned "Pappy" to his five grandchildren, Michaela, Montana, Trevor, Charlie, and Lucas. Jim will forever be remembered for his truly inspirational and courageous desire to remain with and give to the family he cared for so greatly.

A native of Maynard, Ohio, He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Margaret Stropkai, who taught him through their examples, the many virtues by which he chose to live his extraordinary life.

He is survived by his loving sisters, Eileen, of Sarasota, FL, Betty, of Gahanna, OH, and Paula of Riverton, Ill, as well as his many nieces and nephews, in-laws, and friends.

An avid outdoorsman and an exceptional baseball player, Jim was a 1961 graduate of St. John Central High School, attended Ohio University, and served in the United States Army Reserves, before taking a job with the B&O Railroad to start and support his beloved family. Following his accident in 1989, he exemplified fortitude, never gave up on life, and never complained. His willingness to live and the love for his family is truly an inspiration.

Family will receive friends and loved ones Thursday evening from 6-8 pm with a vigil service at 8, visitation will also be held Friday morning from 9-10 am at Toothman Funeral Home in St. Clairsville, OH.

Funeral Liturgy with Mass will follow at 10:30 am Friday at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Colerain with entombment to immediately ensue at Holly Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Jim's life at Shannon's Place afterward.

In Lieu of Flowers, contributions may be made to St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, PO Box 38, Colerain, Ohio 43916.