James R. Shemak, 88, of Oregon, Ohio, passed away Thursday, April 26, 2018 at Lane Park. James was born in Vandergrift, Pennsylvania on May 4, 1929 to Daniel and Louise (Uhlarik) Shemak. After graduating high school as class president and standout football player he would continue his memorable football career at Indiana State University. After college he would later enlist in the US Army and proudly serve his country during the Korean War. After his service in the US Army he then moved to Toledo and began working at LOF for 32 years and was dubbed the "Candy Man" before retiring in 1992. He married the love of his life Frances (Tomsic) on June 28, 1969. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins and Pirates fan. James enjoyed boating, fishing, tending to his flower garden, but what he cherished most was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed having a good time and will certainly be missed by all who knew him.
James is survived by his wife of 49 years, Frances; children, Wendy (Michael) Johnson, Tammy Shemak; grandchildren, CJ, Zachary; step-grandchildren, Zach, Gregory, Tony, Ian; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and 7 siblings.
The family will receive friends at the Eggleston Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home, Oregon Chapel, 440 S. Coy Road on Monday, April 30, 2018 from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at 11:00 am in the funeral home. Interment will follow in North Oregon Cemetery. Memorial contributions in James' name may be directed to Southern Care Hospice.