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BORN
1925
DIED
2021
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JAMES CRAVEN Obituary
James L. Craven, of Akron, Ohio, born June 13, 1925, passed away on his 96th birthday. James was a Navy Veteran of World War II stationed in the South Pacific. After the war he went on to join the Akron Police Force, where he rose through the ranks to sergeant and served for 41 years, 7 months, and 14 days. James was recognized for his ability to diffuse hostile situations and was very proud of never needing to fire his weapon in all his years of service. James also said helping others was the most rewarding part of his job. He once saved a woman from freezing to death in her vehicle. After she was warm, he got her something to eat, filled her gas tank, gave her $20.00, and sent her on her way. This is just one of the many stories he'd love to share with his family over the years. He always said, "There is no such thing as a bad cake.", and his favorite flavor of ice cream is "cold!" James was a member of St. Paul's Catholic Parish, The Fraternal Order of Police, and The Eagles.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Alice, and second wife, Carolyn; son, Patrick; infant son, Timothy; and step-son, James Stults. His survivors include son, Thomas; daughter-in-law, Barbara; step-son, Gordon (Kay) Lange; step-daughter-in-law, Deb Stults; sisters, Betty Nelson and Florence Burroughs; brother, William; sister-in-law, Kathy Williams; brother-in-law, Erv Cormany; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews and friends. The family would like to recognize the staff of Pebble Creek and Elara Hospice for their professional and loving care.
Calling hours will be on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home (811 Grant St., Akron). Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Catholic Church (1580 Brown St, Akron). Burial with military honors will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the church. Please go to James' Book of Memories at: www.dunn-quigley.com to view or leave condolences.
Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home, 330-253-8121
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JAMES CRAVEN
Steve Mcgowan
June 19, 2021
Thank you for serving the city of Akron, Rest In Peace,
God Bless
Stephen J McGowan
Dan Gorring
June 18, 2021
Prayers to the Craven family. Sgt. Craven was one of the first supervisors I worked under. He was a strong leader and example to follow with his guidance to young officers. He served a fulfilling life and will be deeply missed. Craven and Brothers together again.
RIP Sarge.
Ron DiSpina
June 18, 2021
Met Jim in 1970 when I was assigned to the 8p to 4a shift on APD a great leader and will be missed by all that knew him! RIP Brother!
Jimmy Mathews
June 17, 2021
Craven Family,
So sad to read about Jim. He was a legend around APD. One of my first Sgt.'s Jim and his crew helped a lot of us through our Rookie years and kept our heads above water. He will be missed by everyone of us and will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rest in Peace Brother.
Jay Carano
June 17, 2021
Jim Craven was one of the best supervisors I worked for on APD. He personally encouraged me to study hard for the Sergeants exam.
Ray Wysmierski
June 17, 2021
Jim was the best sergeant I worked for at APD. Condolences to Jim’s family.
Dunn-Quigley Funeral Homes
June 17, 2021
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Jim Kroah
June 16, 2021
Sgt Craven my first Sgt when I came to Trick #4 at A.P.D.Many of a might after shift we would give the secret knock at the Wagon Wheel on Case Ave and the door would open . He's sure going to be missed.
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Jun
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Calling hours
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home - Akron Chapel811 Grant St, Akron, OH 44311
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