James F. Griffin Jr., 73, of Bellevue passed away Friday, September 14, 2018 at The Willows at Willard. He was born June 8, 1945 in Willard the son of the late James F. Griffin, Sr. and Juanita (Nottke) Griffin.
Jim was a true patriot, proudly serving his country in the United States Marine Corps. He served in the Vietnam War during Tet Offensive. Jim participated in military funerals often times playing taps. He was part of the honor guard at parades and football games as long as he was able.
Jim was a member of the Elton E. Mackin Detachment Marine Corps League, Norwalk, Ohio; a lifetime member of the VFW Post 1238, member of American Legion Post 46, and Eagles Aerie 490.
His greatest love was his family. He enjoyed attending his grandchildren's activities and was chaperone many times on field trips for School of Hope and Flat Rock. He co-owned and operated Griff’s Outdoor Power Center in Bellevue and loved anything with a motor, especially drag racing and tractor pulls. He was the area coordinator for the local Toys 4 Tots campaign for many years.
Jim was a member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Bellevue where he helped with mowing the lawn and doing what he could for the day care.
Jim is survived by his wife, Diana (Strecker), whom he married June 25, 1966 at St. Paul’s Church in Bellevue and again 50 years later when they renewed their vows on June 26, 2016; They have two children, Mike (Heidi) Griffin of Clyde; Kelly (Dave Gulick) Mougey of Bellevue; 5 grandchildren: Kaylea, Drake, and Gabby Griffin, Emily Mougey, Chase Gulick; his mother, Juanita Griffin and brother, Thomas D. (Patty) Griffin of Bellevue.
He is preceded in death by his father and sister, Cathy Griffin–Kamm.
Friends will be received on Thursday, September 20, 2018 from 2-8 p.m. at Foos & Foos Funeral Service, 151 Yorkshire Place, Bellevue. A funeral service will begin on Friday at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s U.C.C., 428 Kilbourne Street, Bellevue with military honors to follow.
Memorials can be made to Stein Hospice, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870; Toys 4 Tots, 11911 Thomas Road, Monroeville, OH 44847;
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.foosfuneral.com
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