James Hoeflich

MANSFIELD: James Hoeflich was a servant. Ephesians 6:7 states, serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people. Giving his time and energy, Jim was instrumental in the development of Bellville's newly opened Neighborhood Outreach Center; a center providing food and clothing for those in need. Although retired, Jim often spent 8 to 12 hour days remodeling and developing the renovated office located on Bellville's Main Street. His servant's heart now at rest, James L. Hoeflich, 74, of Mansfield passed away Monday morning January 24, 2011 following a brief illness.

Jim was born April 1, 1936 in Bellville the son of Avery and Harriett (Snavely) Hoeflich. In 1956 he made his decision to join the Navy and was honorably discharged in 1961. That same year on July 22 he married his sweetheart, Carol Beal. The two remained area residents.

Jim worked as the Safety Director for Tappan retiring after 35 years. He also worked part time for Richland County mowing in the summer months.

A faithful member of Bellville First Presbyterian Church, Jim served as deacon and was currently a trustee. He was a member of Tappan's Quarter Century Club. Jim gave much of his time to the Bellville community. He also volunteered for over 25 years with the Bellville/Jefferson Township Fire Department.

Jim loved working and tinkering on older cars. Euchre one of his favorite card games, Jim enjoyed playing and being with his family. He was devoted to his grandchildren

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 50 years this July, Carol Hoeflich; sons, Craig Hoeflich of Mansfield and Bruce (Misty) Hoeflich of Howard; grandchildren, Marissa and Dalton, Christian, and Cheyenne Hoeflich; brothers, Lawrence Hoeflich of Mt. Vernon, Charles Hoeflich of Bellville, Jerry (Linda) Hoeflich of Mansfield, Gary (Kay) Hoeflich of Bellville; sisters, Rosalie (Joe) Marker of Bellville and Linda Cole of Mansfield; sister-in-law, Claudette Beal of Cortland, brothers-and-sisters-in-law, Richard and Laura Beal of Galion and Jim and Teresa Beal of Bellville; along with numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Hoeflich; brother-in-law, Robert Beal; sisters-in-law, Norma and Georgia Hoeflich.

The Hoeflich family will receive friends Thursday, January 27, 2011 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home where funeral services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. The Rev. Karin Wright will officiate. Military honors performed by American Legion Post #535 will follow and burial will be in Bellville Cemetery.

Memorial contributions to Bellville Neighborhood Outreach Center may be made at the funeral home.

Private online condolences to the family are encouraged by visiting: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com