James Harold "Jim" Bersche

James Harold Bersche

Jim passed away in the late morning of Thursday, September 12 after a 14 year struggle with dementia. He was born in Fairmont, West Virginia to the Reverend G. J. and Jessie Naomi (Darling) Bersche. The Bersche Family then moved to Warren and Akron, Ohio ending up in Pontiac, Michigan where Jim graduated from high school. He continued his education in Political Science and Education at Nyack College, New York; Wheaton College, Illinois; Eastern Michigan University; Ashland University and Bowling Green State University where he completed courses for his doctorate. However, he never completed his dissertation as he would have had to work on campus requiring him to leave the job he loved at Norwalk High School where he taught and coached track and cross country for over 30 years.

Jim was a passionate teacher and coach having taught in Michigan and Ohio. As a cross country and track coach he taught the principals of running he learned from his Wheaton College coach, Gil Dodds, a record holder in middle-distance running and author. Past students and athletes would come up to him years later to say hello and thank him for the positive influence on their lives. As an accomplished athlete himself, he won many running awards over the years.

He also taught adult bible classes over the years where Jim brought the subject matter to life with personal stories. The many missionaries staying at their house as a child, telling stories around the dinner table helped shape this ability. Jim was also fondly remembered as Uncle Sam in the Norwalk Lions Club Parade which he did for about 15 years.

Jim is survived by his wife, Linda, step-sons Zak Adelman, Derek Adelman (wife Megan and sons Benjamin & Lane) and sister-in-law Barbara Bersche. He is predeceased by his parents, first wife Mary, brothers Joe, Paul (Carolyn), and John.

Visitation will be held at St. Paul Episcopal Church, Norwalk, 87 West Main Street at 10:00am on Friday September 19, 2025, with the service beginning at noon, the Reverend Brian Wilbert presiding. A luncheon will follow.

The family wishes to thank dedicated caregivers Carol and Holly; the expert staff at Southern Care Hospice with special mention to Tiffany, Anna and Chad; caring staff at The Laurels of New London.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Norwalk City Schools Endowment Fund to support scholarships for graduating students. Send donations to the Board Office at 134 Benedict Avenue, Norwalk, OH 44857.