Obituary of James J. Burkell,

James J. Burkell, Sr., 91, of Conneaut passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at his home, surrounded by family. James was born on October 23, 1925 in Erie, Pennsylvania the son of Joseph and Barbara (Angerer) Burkell. He enlisted in the United States Army where he served honorably during World War II, with the 3rd Infantry 5th Army. Mr. Burkell enjoyed working on motors, reading, watching football and playing golf, especially with his sons. Above all else, he loved spending time with this family whom he loved deeply. He is survived by his children, James J. Burkell, Jr. of Deland, FL, Christine (Larry) Salisbury of W. Springfield, Daniel (Luba) Burkell of Conneaut, Robert Burkell of Erie, PA; "son," Bud (Joan) Walker of Conneaut; grandchildren, Jeanette, Shawn, Eric, Katherine, Dylan, Sheri and Craig; and ten great-grandchildren. James was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife of 59 years, Mary Ann Zajkowski Burkell in 2007; son, William Burkell; and his sister, Mary Ann Lesser. Private family services were held at the Thompson Smith Nesbitt Funeral Home, 345 Main St., Conneaut, Ohio. He was buried beside his wife at Springfield Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in memory of James may be given to the Hospice of the Western Reserve, 1166 Lake Ave., Ashtabula, Ohio 44004.