James F. Birr

James F. Birr, age 75, of Maumee, passed away on December 15, 2011 at home in the presence of his loving family. The youngest of 11 children, Jim was born to Clarence and Bernice Birr on August 27, 1936 in Toledo, Ohio. On May 6, 1961, Jim married the love of his life, Nancy (Zeller) Birr. Through over 50 years of marriage, together they raised four "fantastic" children: James M. (Donna) Birr, Janet Ankenbrandt (Rob Cintron), Jeffrey Birr, and Joseph (Jodi) Birr. As their endless love continued to grow, so did their family, with seven grandchildren: Jamie (Anthony) Tscherne, Jodi Birr, Joel (Pam) Ankenbrandt, JJ Birr, Joshua Birr, Tyler Birr, and Emma Birr; and one great-granddaughter: Allison Ankenbrandt. Jim worked for Libbey-Owens-Ford, where he retired after 46 years. In retirement, he spent five years doing part-time maintenance for Directions Credit Union and enjoyed the new friendships he made there. Jim was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Maumee. He was the proud owner of a 1930 Ford Model A, which he often showcased at local car shows and parades with his wife and sons, and the Whitehouse Model A Club. Jim was a quiet, soft-spoken man who would do anything in the world for his family. He was beyond dependable and somehow always had whatever they needed, whether it be a flashlight, a screwdriver (or any other tool for that matter!), or a listening ear. He enjoyed gardening and working in the yard with his wife. When not outside, he could be found sitting in his chair sneaking cookies and drinking Diet Snapple Peach Tea. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers, and 2 sisters. In addition to his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter, he is survived by his sister, June Watt, and brother Tom (Mary Ann) Birr. Family and friends are welcome to celebrate the life of Jim Birr with visitation beginning on Tuesday December 20, 2011 from 2-9 pm at the Maison-Dardenne-Walker Funeral Home 501 Conant St. Maumee. A scripture service will be held on Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm. Funeral services will begin in the funeral home on Wednesday at 10:00 am followed by Funeral Mass at 10:30 am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Maumee. Interment will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Joseph Parish "Commitment to Community" Campus Improvement Campaign or Hospice of Northwest Ohio. on-Line condolences may be made at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com