STRUTHERS – James Rocco Marr died peacefully on Tuesday May 31, 2022 after a short illness at the family homestead, with his loving wife Roseann, of whom he has been of 63 years, by his side.
Born in Struthers on July 21, 1930, the 10th and youngest child of William Biagio and Saletta Sarah Gentile Marr, Jim was a proud lifelong resident of Struthers. All of Jim’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were present before his death and lovingly provided daily visits, care, and comfort.
Jim was the beloved patriarch of the Marr family, which included his son James Marr (Nancy) of Leetonia, Suzanne James (William) of Boardman, Lisa Lorubbio (Carl) of Canfield, Sharon Deeds (Jeffrey) of Twinsburg, and Tracy Bosheff (Brian) by McDonalds.
Aside from his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brothers Tony (Faye), Samuel (Yolanda), John (Viola), Pedro (Mary), Frank and William; as well as his sisters Katherine Muto (Dominic), Mary Constantino (Rocco), and Antonette Barber (Larry L). He was also preceded in death by his in-laws, John and Rose DeSanto. Jim will join his grandson Justin James and great-grandson Jonah James in God’s kingdom.
Jim graduated from Struthers High School in 1949, where he played basketball. He was also a nationally recognized amateur boxer, ranking fifth in the country. After high school Jim enlisted in the Army and proudly served his country as a Private 1st Class and was honorably discharged in February 1957. On October 25, 1958, he married the love of his life, Roseann DeSanto; and they enjoyed 63 years of marriage with their beautiful family on Lake Hamilton. They traveled the world together; His favorite country is his parents’ ancestral homeland, Italy. He also enjoyed Egypt and Thailand.
Jim embodied the courage and work ethic instilled in him from a very young age growing up in the Nebo area of Struthers when he began a 27 year career in the Youngstown Sheet and Tube carbon strip as an assist roller. He later retired from Warren Consolidated Industries after a combined 35 years in the Valley steel industry. In addition to his work at the steel mills, Jim co-owned The International Bar for 35 years.
Jim leaves behind his adoring grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Dad” and who were his greatest pride, William (Amber) James, Ryan (Marisa) James, 1st Lt. Zachary Marr, Anthony, Lily and Anna Marr, Jared, Justin and Alyssa Taten and Brooke and Baylee Bosheff; as well as his great-grandchildren Justin, Mackenzie, William and Paxton James. He also leaves numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved.
Jim was an avid sports fan, enjoyed gardening, gardening and preserving his famous hot peppers. He also enjoyed going out to eat and shop with his wife. His favorite thing to do was spend time with his family. He was a simple, humble, genuine man and a great storyteller who fondly remembered his family and days gone by. Jim attended every baseball, soccer, football, cross country, basketball, swimming and other events important to his family.
Jim was a perfect example of what a husband, father and grandfather should be. Words cannot express the love, pride and respect we have for him. It was an honor to be a part of his life and legacy. We thank him for always being there for us and for loving us as we loved him unconditionally. May he always know how much he touched our lives and how important he was to all of us. He is loved and adored beyond words. May he walk with God and rest in peace forever.
At Jim’s request, there are no office hours. Open to family and friends, Mass will be celebrated by Rev. Michael Swierz on Monday 6 June 2022 at 11:00 am at Christ Our Savior Parish, St Nicholas Church, Struthers. Burial will be at Lake Park Cemetery. Following the funeral, the family will welcome guests for lunch at the MVR, Youngstown.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Hospice of the Valley or a charity of your choice on behalf of our beloved James Rocco Marr.
Arrangements are being handled by the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland.
Condolences can be sent to www.beckerobits.com.
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