James O. Morlock Sr.

James O. Morlock Sr, 65, of West Salem, OH was a husband, father, grandfather and friend. He passed on Thursday, April 27, 2023 after battling a long illness.
Born and raised in Valley City, Jim graduated from Buckeye High School where he dominated the basketball court. He married his high school sweetheart, Joni Grieve in 1975. Together they made their home in West Salem where they grew the family farm and raised their family.
Jim dedicated his life to farming where he worked tirelessly as a steward of the land. He was a respected member of the agricultural community. Despite the challenges of farming, he took great pride in his fields and his dedication was reflected in his and his sons' work. More than his success as a farmer, he will be remembered by his generosity. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke for him. He was a blessed father and grandfather, and his loss will be deeply felt.
Jim enjoyed following the many athletic prowess of his grandchildren and all their academic and other achievements. He was a lover of dogs (especially Buddy, Taco, TJ, Tug, Bella and Woody) and all his heifers and dry cows. Jim was a member of American Legion Post 523 where he enjoyed spending time with his many friends.
Jim is survived by his wife of 47 years, Joni; children, Jim Jr (Kala) Morlock, Brianne (Adam) Indorf, Cory (Amber) Morlock, Monica (Aaron) Froelich; grandchildren, Colby "Cheddar Cheese", Allison "Alley-Oop", Dillon "Dill-Pickle", Brandt "Mr. B", Cayden "Mr. C", Hannah "Hanner-Nanner", Bryson "Boshi-Yoshi", Case "The Boss", and Cooper "Fred" and siblings, Nancy (William) Widenmeyer, John Morlock, Jean Wood and Dennis (Cathie) Morlock.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret (Overholt) Morlock; brothers, Roy and Thomas and sister, Frances.
We mourn his passing, but take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will live on. His love for the land and passion for farming lives on his children and grandchildren.
Jim's struggle with alcoholism had hills and valleys, our thoughts and prayers always go out to those who are affected by this disease. The family would like to send out a special thank you to Town & Country Fire Department and Akron General for their care.
Funeral service will be held Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Parker Funeral Home, 210 Medina St., Lodi. Visitation will be held Monday, May 1, 2023 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the funeral home.
Chaplain Don Bolich will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to OneEighty, 104 Spink St., Wooster, Town & Country Fire Dist., PO Box 175, West Salem, or American Legion Post #523, 120 Bank St., Lodi.
Online condolences may be shared at www.parkerfuneralhomes.com.