James Harig

James P Harig, 93, went home to join the Lord on April 13, 2022. He was born in Akron, OH on June 4, 1928. Jim was the son of late August and Mary Harig. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Catherine, and his oldest daughter Mary. Jim is survived by his children: James Jr, Teresa Wile, Janice Varca (Jimmy), Keith (Kathy), Kevin (Vicki), Joe (Cassie), and son-in-law Rich Storey. He is a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Jim was a devout Catholic who was guided by his faith daily. Participating in Mass and praying the rosary provided him with comfort and strength from above. He was actively involved in his local parish, St. Matthew's Catholic Church, contributing to the parish outreach program regularly. Jim volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Society for many years, rising even during all hours of the night to offer to others much needed assistance. He rejoices to share the precious days of Holy Week with his Lord and Savior and to realize, on Easter, the resurrection of life he has awaited.
Games of chance were among some of his favorite hobbies. Luck followed him in all his pursuits, and he wore his Irish clover hat for all to see. He will be fondly missed by all gambling companions and competitors. The dealers staffing the Craps table at Mountaineer Casino will have longer days without the cordial humor of "the governor" but find greater job security not having to dispense his winnings. World traveling was always of special interest to him, even if he only toured the world from the comfort of his own home. He would gladly take calls at any hour of the day except 7-8 pm when you could find him watching Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy.
Jim will be missed by all who love him. He was a friend to all he met and a stranger to no one. He viewed every day as a new beginning and made the most of each one. Jim was a jack of many trades as a faithful employee to Goodyear, Packaging Specialties, and the family-owned companies of Varca Hardware and Harig Auto Parts. His most prized job was serving as a crossing guard in his later years to students at the Akron Public Schools system. He was a simple man who considered the needs of others greater than his own. He cherished each moment with those he loved and often captured them in photos to preserve them in his memory. Jim will forever live in ours and in the memory of all those who had the privilege to know him.
Thank you to the Summa care team at Akron City Hospital for the kind and attentive care they offered to Jim during his last days.
Calling hours will be Monday 4-7pm at the Hummel Funeral Home, 500 E. Exchange St. Akron, Ohio 44304. Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday 11am at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 2580 Berne St., Akron, OH 44312. Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Matthew's Outreach Program.