James J. Hershberger

James Jacob Hershberger, age 58, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 28, 2022 at home in Alliance, Ohio. He was born May 29, 1963 in Canton to Jacob and Irene (Miller) Hershberger and resided in the Hartville area for most of his life.

After years apart, James reconnected with his High School sweetheart, Janelle (Gault) Hershberger and they were married in 2012 at a beach side ceremony. James attended Marlington Schools for 11 years but graduated from Lake High School in 1981. He went on to own and operate a roofing business, James Hershberger Construction, for over 35 years.

James had a special love for Walleye fishing at Lake Erie and in Canada. He was the life of the party and loved hosting fish fry gatherings at his home for family and friends to share his recent catch. James was full of life and love to all around him. He always made his presence known when he entered a room by his loud voice and bigger heart. He was known as “Big Bear” to many earning that nickname by his joyous overtones and large stature. James had a special love for his chocolate lab named “Bear” which traveled with him every day to his jobsites. He also loved hunting, watching the Browns and Ohio State football.

Family and friends meant everything to James and he will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Janelle and his loving mother Irene Hershberger. James is also survived by his sons, Kenny (Katie) Nemeth of Stow and James Hershberger of Hartville; stepson, David Sprague of Uniontown and step-daughter, Rachel Sprague of Massillon; grandchildren, Caleb, Tyler and Brooklyn and his siblings, Duane (Mabel) Hershberger, Debra Forrest, Darryl Hershberger, Ed (Lisa) Hershberger and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Jacob Hershberger, his sister Janet Hershberger, and his brother Devon Hershberger.

Calling hours will be Monday, May 2, 2022, from 4-7 PM at the Chapel in Marlboro. Funeral services will be 11:00 am Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at the Church with Pastor Joel Cochran and Ron Bowers.

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