He was born on October 7, 1937 in Wellsville, OH, the son of the late Wilma D. (Thomas) and Glenn LaClair.
He served in The United States Marines earning an Honorable Discharge from the Armed Forces on February 23, 1959. He later worked on the Ohio River for DRAVO and Manitowoc Crane Company. Although the love of the Ohio River and his work with Manitowoc was halted by a tragic accident, James found strength to preserve and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.
He is survived by his loving wife, Irene (Rutledge) LaClair, whom he married on November 24, 1956; beloved dog, Bobo; son, James LaClair of West Palm Beach, FL; daughters Patty LaClair and Kelly (Gary) Daniels of Jacksonville, FL; five grandchildren, James (Tricia) LaClair of West palm Beach, Amber, Ashley, and Abigail Daniels of Jacksonville, FL, and Julie LaClair of Wellsville, OH; great-grandchildren, Austin and Kiley LaClair; as well as beloved cousin, Tom Phillips of Steubenville, OH who was considered a life long brother.
He was preceded in death by sister Sue Dowling of Maple Heights, OH and two brothers, Glenn and Gordon LaClair of Wellsville, OH.
Although gone, he will always be known as Pappy to his grandchildren, ACE in Wellsville, and a true hero to all who knew him. Remember the countless nights of talking in his garage on 14th street, the 4:15 happy hour, and Sundays watching football and laughing with his friends at Aardwolf Brewing Company.
DAD,
DEATH MAY HAVE TAKEN YOU AWAY FROM ME, BUT MY LIFE'S HERO YOU'LL ALWAYS BE
Private services will be held at a later date in Jacksonville, FL.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5