James Van Vranken

James (Jim) Allen Van Vranken
Age 91, of North Canton, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, June 21, 2017, while surrounded by loved ones. His story began on May 10, 1926, when his parents, the late Garrett and Nadine Van Vranken, welcomed him into the world. Jim was raised in North Canton, where he graduated from NOCAHI in 1944. Soon after high school, he enlisted in the Navy, and his journey took to the sea. He was assigned to the LSM-119, and served in the South Pacific until 1946. Shortly after his return, he met a spunky little lady named Charlotte on a blind date and fell in love. They were married on June 5, 1948, and spent 69 years raising three sons and living life together. Jim spent many years working as a Controller for both the E.W. Bliss Company in Canton, and Alliance Machine in Alliance. Upon retirement, he and Charlotte began traveling across the country, playing golf in 42 states. Jim was an avid golfer, traveler, woodworker, and an active member of Zion United Church of Christ. He was a faithful, wise, patient and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.
In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his sister, Alice Brown, and grandson, Daniel Leslie. He is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte (Jenkins) Van Vranken; three sons and their spouses, Tom (Susie) Van Vranken of North Canton, Todd (Barb) Van Vranken of Louisville, and Scott (Linda) Van Vranken of North Canton; and six grandchildren, Jonathan Van Vranken, Benjamin Van Vranken, Tara Van Vranken, Jacob (Lauren) Van Vranken, Emily Van Vranken, and Michael (Lynda) Leslie.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 27, 2017, at 11 a.m., at Zion United Church of Christ (415 South Main Street, North Canton, OH 44720) with Rev. Eli O. Klingensmith, officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home of North Canton, Ohio (330-452-4041).