James Burdon

James L. Burdon, Esq, age 78 passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family on November 13, 2017. Only family and those close to Jim know and appreciate that his history is what brought him to where he is today ... a successful attorney, dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and committed man of faith. Born into a family of meager means Jim learned early in life to focus and work hard to overcome challenges. Growing up in a family that moved frequently, Jim attended high school in south side Chicago. He was awarded a basketball scholarship to Ripon College where he decided to further his education. After receiving his degree, he entered the US Army, completed training as an Army Airborne Ranger, and served two years active duty and three years reserve duty as Army Captain. Following his honorable discharge, Jim enrolled in The University of Akron Law School and in 1969 began his law career in the Summit County Prosecutor's Office. Soon after, he went into private practice where his reputation as a detailed researcher and scholar of the law earned him the respect of his peers. Over the years, he has been consulted by national news networks for opinions in high profile cases. In 1985, The Beacon Magazine profiled Jim's courtroom accomplishments in a cover article entitled 'The Consummate Counselor.' A similar cover story was again featured in 1994, titled 'The King of the Court,' which Jim truly was. Jim's reputation as a perfectionist goes far beyond the law. His love of basketball and his family led him to offer his talents as a CYO coach from 1978-2016. His knowledge of the game, skill, discipline, and love of young people produced numerous championship teams. In 2013, Jim was inducted into the Diocese of Cleveland CYO Hall of Fame. An honorary alumnus of St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, Jim has been a staunch supporter for more than thirty years. During this time he offered financial support and volunteered his time and talents, never once asking for compensation in return. Jim served five years on the STVM school board and was most recently serving on the schools Foundation Board. Jim has been married to his wife, Patty, for 42 years. Together they have four children Erin (John) Faetanini, Christopher (Jodi) Burdon, Jamie (Chris) Vignali, and Joe (Karissa) Burdon and ten grandchildren, Sal, Gia, Joe, Ross, Alec, John, Aden, Cooper, Mia, and Addisyn. Jim is survived by his sister Carole Taylorson of California, sister-in-law Rebecca Burdon Hudrlik of Wisconsin, and numerous family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Elizabeth Burdon and his brother Timothy Burdon. Family and friends are invited to The Lebron James Arena at St. Vincent- St. Mary High School, 15 N. Maple St. Akron, Ohio 44303 on Wednesday, November 15, 2017 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church, 17 S. Maple Street, Akron, OH 44303 on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Interment in Holy Cross Cemetery.