James A. Koler

James Allen Koler, 70, passed away Friday, November 29, 2024 with his wife and daughter at his side, following a lengthy illness. He was born, May 11, 1954 in Elyria to George and Josephine (Zvosechz) Koler. Jim is survived by his wife of 43 years, Kaye (nee Pope) Koler of Amherst, daughter Jennifer (Bill) Hall and granddaughter Brynn Hall of Henrietta Township, brother George Koler of Amherst, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his son Joshua, his parents, and his sister, Jackie (Gary) Handley. Jim graduated from Elyria High School in 1972 and moved to Florida where he worked as an A/C-refrigeration mechanic, and later as an OTR truck driver. Jim returned to Ohio and became a certified specialty welder at nuclear power plants across the country and local auto plants. As a proud 35-year member of UA Local 42 Plumbers & Steamfitters, he served on the negotiating and finance committees for many years. Jim was an avid hunter, camper, and fisherman. He enjoyed cooking and perfected the art of smoking a variety of food. Jim loved the outdoors and that included drag racing, riding his Harley-Davidson, family gatherings, old westerns and sitting by a campfire. At cookouts, he was the master of turning bacon for bacon bread. For many people, Jim was the guy to call if help was needed. He was a man of his word with a gentle spirit who touched many lives and will truly be missed by all who knew him.
The family will receive friends on Friday, December 6, 2024 from 11:00 am until the time of his funeral service at 1:00 pm at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, Amherst. To send an online condolence, please visit www.dovinreberjones.com.