Obituary
James Jay Casanova 73, of Akron, Oh – a loving father, son, brother, friend, Law Enforcement Officer and shining star to all who crossed paths with him, passed away on August 30, 2023 in Florida, surrounded by his loving family.
James, affectionally known to many as Jimmy or Jim, was born on June 2, 1950 in Kenmore Oh, to James & Eva Lou Casanova, both deceased.
After graduation from Kenmore High School, he attended The University of Akron, where he graduated with a degree in Education. He spent over 35 remarkable years on the Akron Police Department. He enjoyed many facets during his career including Patrol, Training Bureau as a driving and firearms instructor, squad leader for the Academy and the Detective Bureau as a missing persons’ officer. His gentle nature and his love and respect for humanity made him a great friend, officer, partner and acquaintance to the many who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Jim had a special love of athletics during his high school and college days on the basketball court and track and field team and even accomplished the coveted hole-in-one after moving to The Villages, Fl. He had the ability to try a sport/game once and instantly pick it up as if he’d been doing it for years. His talent and love of these sports resulted in setting and maintaining several records. He was also very active during annual Police Olympic meets competing in Shot Put, Javelin and Bowling.
It gave him great joy to watch his children’s involvement and success in sports. He was able to share his passion for athletics as he encouraged and coached them in soccer, track, basketball and softball.
Jim leaves behind his wife, Debbie of 46 years, his children Christy Casanova Clark (Jack) of Medina, Oh. and Gregory Casanova (Cassie) of Columbus, Oh. Sister Billie Ferguson (Dave), 5 grandchildren; Jack, Westen, Brooklyn, Tatum and Grady. Nephew Victor Ferguson and family (Linda Van and Mac) and many cousins.
Celebration of Life Services will be held in Ohio at the FOP Lodge 7 Wolter Park on Friday, October 27 from 3:00 – 6:00 and in The Villages, Fl. at Community Methodist Church, Fruitland Park, on October 16 from 10:00 – 1:00.
In Lieu of flowers, loving donations can be made to one of the many organizations who enriched Jim’s life:
—Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, 2610 Ley Drive, Akron, Oh 44319
—Amedisys Foundation, Compassionate Care Hospice, 3854 American Way
Suite A, Baton Rouge, La 70816
—Alzheimers Foundation, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, Il 60601
It is with such appreciation, the family wishes to thank the many dedicated family, friends, clergy, acquaintances, neighbors, colleagues and caring people who offered prayers, medical and tender care. You meant the world to Jim and his family and your continued prayers have offered such comfort. Jim led an extraordinary life because of this love. Your kindness, compassion and love during this difficult time will forever be remembered.
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