James H. DuMars

James H. DuMars of West Springfield, Pa., died Monday morning, July 7, 2014, at St. Vincent Health Center, Erie, Pa.

James was born in Erie, Pa., on August 2, 1943, the son of the late Robert H. and Jean Bliss DuMars. He graduated from high school from the Carlisle Military Academy in Bamberg, S.C., and worked for many years at RP & C Valve (known today as PHB in Girard). He retired from True Temper in Lake City, where he worked as a machinist for many years. James enjoyed woodworking and making kid's toys, he enjoyed talking on the CB radio, using the handle, "Telstar." He even built his home alongside his loving friend of 44 years, Kay Best.

Besides his parents, James is preceded in death by a stepdaughter, Frances Gibbons.

James is survived by his first wife, Bonnie DuMars and his second loving friend, Kay (Wells) Best. He is also survived by a daughter, Donna Kuffer of Lake City, Pa., and five stepchildren: David (Bev) Best of Gilbert, S.C., Cheryl (Frank) Durden of Swansea, S.C., Marlyn, Jr. (Rebecca) Best of Andover, Ohio, Holly Postupack of Girard, Pa., and Dale (Dianna) Best of West Columbia, S.C. He is also survived by grandchildren: Evi Bowers, Jay Kuffer, Dylan Kuffer, Bonnie Thompson, April Merrill, Kyle Best, Shyene Miller, Alex Best, Chasity Caudill, Adam Best, Veronica Best, and Dustin Best. He also has fourteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Donald DuMars of Phoenix, Ariz.

There will be no calling or services for Mr. DuMars. The arrangements are being handled by the Jean Evans Thompson Funeral Home, in East Springfield, Pa. Memorial donations may be made in memory of Mr. DuMars to the A.N.N.A. Shelter, 1555 E. 10th Street, Erie, PA 16511.

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