James F. Stokes, 78, of Oak Harbor, OH and formerly of Grayling, MI, died Saturday, August 28, 2010, at his residence. He was born in Toledo, OH, to Martin and Maurine (Kirsch) Stokes. James graduated from Central Catholic High School and earned an Associate Degree in Automotive Management from the General Motors Institute. James worked as the service director and manager for Taylor Automotive, Dave White Chevrolet, Harry May Chevrolet, and Carl F. Weissenberger. He retired in 1994. He was a past president of the Chevrolet & Buick Service Council and proud to be in the "Only The Best Club."
James served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a member of the Korean War Veterans Association, longtime member of the American Legion Post #106 in Grayling, MI, and a former VFW member. James enjoyed woodworking, deer hunting, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
James is survived by his daughters: Theresa (Joseph) Kolbow of Maumee, OH and Laurie Ann Stokes of Gridley, CA; son: Robert (Angela) Stokes of Graytown, OH; eight grandchildren; one great granddaughter; brother: John (Carol) Stokes of Addison, MI; and cousin: Anna Mary (Martin) Smolenski of Toledo, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Toledo, OH, Friday, September 10, 2010, at 2:45 p.m. Meet at Parkside entrance. A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 11, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 112 E. Wayne St., Maumee, OH, followed by a celebration of his life at 2:00 p.m. at Robert's home in Graytown. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of James may be given to Central Catholic High School, Cherry Street Mission, and Oak Harbor Library. Online condolences may be shared with the family at Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory in Oak Harbor. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.
