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JAMES BOEKE Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for JAMES BOEKE
Sponsored by Heritage-Dilday Memorial Services.
Cindy Dyer
August 29, 2023
I had Mr Boeke as my English teacher back in 78/79.
I always liked him, and was star struck that my teacher was an actor. Lol
I was majorly shocked when I was watching Forrest Gump, and saw him show up on screen! Even all those years later, I still recognized him. I've been reminiscing my high school days, and was thinking of him recently, so I looked him up, which is how I found this memorial. Although he was only my teacher for a couple of years, I've often thought of him, and remembered him fondly as a nice man, a good teacher, and a wonderful actor. Though I saw him in only a few things, (I never watched Star Trek)
He was always entertaining in anything he did.
Rest well Mr. Boeke
Josh Prough
March 6, 2023
I will always remember Mr Boeke for teaching me how to spell beautiful. He was very kind and would keep my mind at ease when I was feeling scared or numb. Thank you Mr Boeke...
Mark Case
September 25, 2020
I can close my eyes and still hear his big deep voice calling my name... “Case!”
I do not believe in coincidences! In 1972 My mother, sister and I arrived in Westminster just 8 weeks before school and sports began. I didn’t know anyone. Our family situation was tenuous volatile at best and we had moved a million times. I was crushed mentally and emotionally!
I know God led me to this incredible man, James Boeke.
First he was my freshman football coach. He taught me about football (I’d never played before) and it sparked my love of the sport.
Second he was my teacher. He offered sanctuary at lunchtime! Each day a bunch of teammates would eat lunch with Coach Boeke in his English class. He always had a new book he wanted me to read! He encouraged me when I didn’t think I had it in me!
Third and most importantly James Boeke was my mentor, and friend! My gratitude to him is unmeasurable!
Ask any Westminster Lion who had the honor to know Coach Boeke and you will hear nothing but amazing stories! He was that incredible, and it didn’t hurt that he was as fast as a gazelle, strong enough knock heads if anyone got into a fight, and smart as a whip!
When I was at the crossroads Coach Boeke made sure I was on the right path! Not to get mushy but he really saved my life!
I graduated from WHS.
I received a football scholarship.
I played college football.
I graduated college.
I received a teaching credential.
I received my MS in education
I became a teacher for at-risk students
I worked with heartbreaking situations
I finished my teaching career with ACCESS/OCDE
My sorrow is for the Boeke family and their loss!
I will remember how he lived and the impact he had/has made on my life path! Iam a better man for knowing him. I speak for all Lions when I say he was one of the Best Ever!
I owe him everything! May God Bless James Boeke!
Diana Jones
September 21, 2020
Mr. Boeke was a gentle giant. He was my favorite teacher when I attended Audubor Jr. High School in 1963. I can still remember Mr. Boeke tell the class about his football days playing with L.A. Rams.
Joanie Smith
March 11, 2020
I met Jim many years ago. He was kind in every way possible. I had no idea he passed away and I am very saddened about that. Jim, RIP my friend and thank you for our friendship, I will never forget you.
Angela Fuller
June 18, 2018
Jim Boeke was my English teacher at Westminster HS in my sophomore year, 91/92. That was the first year I really enjoyed English class. He was a great teacher, always treated the students with respect. I was just watching an old episode of the A-Team and saw him and decided to look him up. My deepest condolences to his family. He was an amazing person and he touched a lot of lives.
Marsha Jue-Barrett
May 19, 2017
Mr. Boeke was my English teacher at Audubon Junior High in 1965 or 1966. He was a really nice man, I remember everyone in English really liked him. I grew to love English and earned an A in his class.
Michele Flowers
April 22, 2017
I was just watching Forrest Gump and remembering what an awesome teacher you were at WHS. I had you for Sports Lit then became your teacher's aide & you gave me an A+! Thank you for that. You were always nice and would tell us jokes sometimes. You are missed by many.
1948 Cub Scouting in Cuyahoga Falls
Doug Sarbach
March 4, 2016
Dawn Graham
June 7, 2015
Just found out about his passing. He was one of my favorite teachers. Had him for several English classes through the years 79-82. So glad he was a Christian also.
Tanya Scheibe (Harold) Scheibe (Harold)
November 9, 2014
He was my soph english teacher! In fact he was one of the very few teachers to leave a lasting memory with his bigger than life personality and the stories he'd tell! He will be deeply missed! RIP Mr. Boeke
Maria Nielsen
October 21, 2014
Rest in peace my good friend.
Maria Nielsen
October 20, 2014
Jim was my first neighbor/FRIEND when I moved to California, 35 years ago. The best next door neighbor a person could have. He has a wonderful family and his wife Peggy was just as nice and caring person as he was.
I will truly miss him....I felt safe with him living next door to me and my family...He was so supportive when my children were in school..
You always had a kind word..
He will be truly truly missed!!!
I'm sure you are in heaven with Peggy and my dad....
Love you and miss you soooo much..
Maria
Jim Floyd
October 17, 2014
He was my English teacher and I enjoyed looking forward to his class everyday. A great role model for all the young kids. He will surely be missed.
Jim Floyd - Class of 1988
Walt De BELL
October 17, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Boeke family.
Jim's #1 fan in Troy, NY
barbara thomason
October 15, 2014
You never truly know how many lives are changed by your actions, Mr. Boeke changed so many causing a butterfly effect which have reached beyond anything we could imagine. Funny until today I didn't realize you were born in Akron and ended up in Westminster, I was born in Westminster and ended up in Akron.. RIP to a wonderful teacher
John Meyer
October 13, 2014
RIP Coach Boeke. I have fond memories of your Sports Lit. class. Mainly because of your stories. You were my Freshman football coach you were a great mentor to me and all the rest of the team. I am a better person for knowing you.
October 5, 2014
Jim was such a great guy, with a sense of humor that couldn't be beat. I will miss him and our monthly chats tremendously. Love, Dale
Dave
October 5, 2014
Jim was a neighbor and often stopped by to talk when walking his dog. He was always gregarious and interested in whatever I was doing. I'm sorry to know of his passing.
Julie Love Kelly
October 4, 2014
RIP Beloved Teacher and Coach.
Class of '78
October 3, 2014
Jim played football for my Father at Heidelberg College. He was not only a fantastic football player but a great person. I will always remember how kind he was to my Mother following my Father's death. We will miss seeing him at Heidelberg events.
Jane Hoernemann Hieronymus
Jim Clark
October 3, 2014
I have been a close friend of Jim's for over 65 years. Played guard next to his tackle at cuyahoga falls high school. Stayed in touch with Jim and scoby all these years through letters and phone calls and class reunions . He is without doubt one of the finest men I have ever known. My prayers go out to his daughters and family. I will truly miss my old friend. I fixed Jim up with his first date, long befor he knew what girls were all about. See you again some day big guy.
Lisa Pkelps
October 2, 2014
R.I P Coach
John Begin
October 2, 2014
He was a great coach but better human being...he was a father figure for me who did not have a father around...he was a great example for young men. Beloved coach by all.
Candie Thompson (Danes)
October 2, 2014
Loved my years of being his teachers aide, his big ol' self and 4'9" me. Quite a sight! I loved this man and looked up to him, always. He was one of the reasons I went to all class reunions. I will miss you so much
jerry willingham
October 2, 2014
Great man.
kelly rodriguez
October 2, 2014
james was a wonderful man the frist day of school i was lost and he said can i help u. he saw my class and u have me next and he showed me the way he was sweet i could came and get help with homework anytime.i will miss him god bless class of 1982
dale Mercado
October 1, 2014
Rest in peace coach
Scott Hoernemann
October 1, 2014
Lifting up the Boeke family with prayers and love in this difficult time. He inspired and brought joy to so many! -- The Hoernemann Family
Scott Robinson
October 1, 2014
I am just one of the many, many people who's lives were enriched by knowing Jim. I was a student of his first and became friends with Jim after high school playing an occasional game of rugby. He was truly one of gods special people. Rest in peace coach.
Scott Robinson, WHS Class of 74'
Lee Martin
October 1, 2014
Having read the above messages, one thing has become very clear: Jim touched many lives in a very positive way. He was a graduate and very loyal supporter of Heidelberg (now) University where he was admired, loved and respected by many. Thanks, Jim, for your many gifts to us all. We were blessed to have you for as long as we did. Peace to your family and to you.
Patti Boggs
October 1, 2014
You will be missed by many. Forgotten by none. RIP
PAMELA POLITZ
October 1, 2014
Dear Boeke Family,
Our family watched Jim grow-up on Notre Dame Avenue in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. We have many loving memories of Cal, Marge and Jim. We deeply-loved these wonderful friends, and our hearts are broken. We stayed in close-touch with Jim, and our visits through the years were always heart-warming. We are sending you all of our love.
The Michael Politz Family
October 1, 2014
Heidelberg University, Tiffin OH offers its condolences. We are very sorry for your loss!
Sincerely,
Monica Verhoff
Executive Assistant to President Huntington
October 1, 2014
I loved the 1 class I had with him always had great stories about his Football and acting career a gentle giant and an awesome teacher.May God bless him and his family.Robert Collamore WHS 1982.
Diana Montejano
October 1, 2014
Thank you, Mr. Boeke.Your bright smile and easy manner gave comfort and confidence to so many. May your family and your dog Scooby be comforted by your passing. Thank you for being one of the best teachers I ever had. Godspeed
October 1, 2014
Thanks for being you Mr Boeke, You are an inspiration to many!. God bless you.
September 30, 2014
You gave WHS spirit and character. Thanks for your continued kindness to the students and staff. The Lord's peace and love be with the family at this time.
Donna Villa Lambrose 79
Inga Crane-Marshall
September 30, 2014
I will miss your wonderful stories and laughs.
Christina Young
September 30, 2014
Mr Boeke was my teacher at WHS. He was awesome! He always would pull pranks and make us laugh. He seemed to like the little things. All of his students respected him and just generally liked him. If you had the chance to cross paths with Mr Boeke consider yourself lucky. I know I am! RIP you funny man you! Prayers go out to his family. I only shared a small piece of time with him.... I am sure a lifetime with him was hilarious and extremely special. You got one of the great ones JC! Get ready to LOL
jenny riojas
September 30, 2014
He was the best teacher and coach. I remember going to see him perform in the play "Of mice and Men" at the Gem theater. He truly was one of a kind. RIP Coach. Prayers and thoughts for his family.
Mat Vaux
September 30, 2014
This kind hearted man was the best teacher I ever had. I wish I could have told him how important he was to my career as a writer. Mr. Boeke, thank you for everything. May whichever god you believed in hold you in their arms and watch over the loved ones you left behind.
Clifta Frizzell
September 30, 2014
Mr. Boeke was a wonderful teacher...he will be missed.
Cari Carter(Hastings)
September 30, 2014
I loved Mr Boeke as a teacher! He shared his amazing life experiences and careers with us. He told many inspiring " follow your dreams" stories:-) I have and will always remember him proudly!
September 30, 2014
Such a wonderful person! A kind soul that reached so many people by just being himself. RIP Coach Boeke. You will always be one of the fondest memories of my WHS years! Prayers and Blessings
Adrienne Class of 1979
Shari Wetherbee
September 30, 2014
Mr Boeke was one of my favorite teachers ever! He pushed me to write and learn and to be a better student. He left a big impression on my ability to try harder! I am a better person for having him as a teacher and mentor! Rest in Peace and thanks for you commitment to teaching!
September 30, 2014
To Coach Boeke's family, I have remembered him.all throughout these years and the impact he made upon my life. May he rest in peace and the comfort of The Lord be with you during this time.
Shelly Alcocer WHS 1982
September 30, 2014
May God bring Peace and Comfort to all that Loved and Admired him! He is a wonderful teacher, mentor , Coach to thousands. May you rest in peace! Love you Coach.
Nan Wills Loomer 1974
Leslie Yep
September 30, 2014
Prayers and blessings to your family, Coach Boeke.
Leslie Derby Yep- WHS class of 1974
Debbie Preston-Berry
September 30, 2014
One of my memories of Mr. Boeke was when I and some fellow classmates went to see him perform in the play Of Mice and Men in 1985. He had such a love for theater and his students. Sending heartfelt sympathies to his family.
September 30, 2014
He will be truly missed. I hope scooby has a home. Prayers to the family.
Lupe Gomez class of "74"
staff @ DR CECIL FOLMAR OFFICE
September 30, 2014
MAY HE REST IN PEACE HE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON GOING TO MISS HIM AND HIS SMILE COMING TO OUR OFFICE.OUR CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO THE FAMILY MAY YOU HAVE MUCH COMFORT AND PEACE HE IS WITH THE ANGEL ABOVE! GO DALLAS COWBOYS!!!
Lisa DeLuccio
September 30, 2014
Rest in Peace Mr. Boeke
September 30, 2014
Great Teacher and all around person . This world is now short a great man, may his spirit live on through all he touch. RIP Kathy Stephens WHS 1976
September 30, 2014
Mr. Boeke provided certainty during uncertain high school times. Godspeed.
Kirk J. Brown
September 30, 2014
Coach Boeke, you were such an inspiration to all the students at Westminster High School. Both my older sisters & I will never forget how you connected with each and every one of us, gave us goals to reach for. Later in life you we're one of my Insurance clients and I so enjoyed visiting with you. My condolences to your famiy and now God is saying " Well done my good and faithful son" God Bless.... Laurie Peterson Fisser
Kevin Smith
September 30, 2014
God bless you Coach, you were the best and you touched all our lives for the better. You will never be forgotten by your students and especially your players. I always looked up to you Coach, and I always will, I am proud and honored to have known you. Rest in Peace.
September 30, 2014
Coach was respected and revered by ALL at Westminster High School. That BIG booming voice on the sled, the quiet gentle voice in class, his commanding presence. I cannot begin to explain the depth of influence Coach Boeke made upon this here old Lion. Oh yeah, if you'd ever had seen him break up a fight.... you'd never, ever'd want to get into another! I thank God for the opportunity to know this great man. He was our teacher, our coach, our mentor, and our friend. May God Bless his family during this time of such loss. I promise to remember him always.
Russ Herd
September 30, 2014
R.I.P. Coach
Russ Herd
September 30, 2014
R.I.P. Mr. Boeke
Tammi Washam
September 30, 2014
My condolences
Robert Harris
September 30, 2014
I am just one of many who got to stand back in awe and observe this great coach when I was about thirteen or fourteen in freshman football. Positive, humorous, seemed-to-be enjoying himself all of the time. Made a day in high school more fun.
David Richford
September 30, 2014
my heart goes out to his family and friends. Coach Boeke was a great teacher and coach. He will be Missed and never forgotten. RIP coach Boeke. Another angel among us
September 30, 2014
God blessed us with Jim Boeke, and he is now home with His lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was one of my english teachers at WHS in the 80s, and I will miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with His family.
Jim Van New Kirk
Cheri Ertel
September 30, 2014
I was in Coach Boeke's Sports lit class in 1975
I was reunited with Coach when he started attending Voyage Calvary Church in FV. Every Sunday I looked forward to seeing him and greeting him with a big hug. Everyone who met this man loved him. I am so blessed to have known him and I already miss him very much, but I know where he is and he is in great hands. God Bless you Coach and your family.
September 30, 2014
Rest in peace Coach Boeke. You were a wonderful mentor for many of us at WHS. Julie Melvin WHS class of 1983.
Tracey Schuelke
September 30, 2014
Coach Boeke was one of the two most influential teachers I had in High School. I had such a good time in his English class, I actually signed up for his Sports Lit Class just because "he" taught it. I even talked my BFF into taking the class with me (and we were not interested in sports at the time). Mr Boeke had a natural ability to connect with us as teenagers and he was an amazing role model as well (on and off the football field). Loved Loved Loved him. The world is a sadder place without him, but heaven now has a wonderful Angel among them. I will always remember him with a smile and will be forever grateful for all that he taught me. He was one of a kind. RIP Coach Boeke.
Mari Kay MeisenheimerAllen
September 30, 2014
Peace for you Mr. Boeke. I believe we laughed in class more then the work. Thanks.
September 30, 2014
R.I.P. Coach Boeke. Brad Skarsten, WHS Class of 78
KENNY CLUCKEY
September 30, 2014
RIP
Tina Stephens
September 30, 2014
I remember Mr. Boeke as a caring gentle giant of a man in the classroom, and a great motivator on the football field. Had it not been for a conversation with him, I may not have graduated High School.
Karl; Nicholson
September 30, 2014
R.I.P (Rest in Paradise) Mr Boeke. You are epitome of a gentle giant!! You are and will be missed. You are the kind of professor that once you meet, you will never forget!!! I am honored to have met you. My prayers are with you, your family and anyone that has ever met you!!
valerie Bradford
September 30, 2014
May he RIP. MR Boeke was the best teacher I ever had in 1973
colleen huddleston
September 30, 2014
I remember Mr. Boeke from westminster high school. He was such a nice man and was always smiling. May he rest in peace. I pray for his family and give them peace at this time.
Jodie Goode
September 30, 2014
Enjoyed his class in high school; honored to have known him. He always had a great smile on his face!
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