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CHAMPION -- James Franklin Sitko, 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026, at home, surrounded by family.
He was born on Sept. 9, 1942, to the late James and Stephanie Krempa Sitko.
James graduated from Chalker High School in Southington, Ohio, in 1960, and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He worked as a material handler at Lincoln Electric for 25 years. Following his retirement, James continued doing what he enjoyed, working at Avalon Golf Course and Forest Oaks Golf Course.
James married the love of his life, Deborah McClead Sitko, in 1985. He enjoyed golfing, bowling and traveling, and he especially enjoyed the time spent with family and friends. James also took pride in making his homemade wine, something he enjoyed sharing with the people around him. He had a way of enjoying the simple pleasures in life and creating memories along the way.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah; his daughter, Carla (James) DeLong; his son, Travis Troyer; his grandchildren, Dylan (Austin), Keegan, Megan and Sailor; and his sisters, Carol (Bernie) Wiorkowski, Marcia Russell, Christina (Bill) Dunning, Karen (Billy) Thrasher and Donna (Mike) Mihalisin. He is also survived by his son-in-law, Steve Neff; sister-in-law, Becky (Dale) Holzheimer; brothers-in-law, Todd (Connie) McClead and Ron (Maryann) McClead; and many extended family members and dear friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents; his stepmom, Felicia Ann Gaioch; his daughter, Shelley Neff; and his brothers, Robert, Eugene, and Douglas Sitko.
Calling hours will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, at Sly Family Funeral Home, 15670 W. High St., Middlefield. A funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. Tuesday, at the funeral home, with Randy Kaser officiating. Military honors will follow the service.
Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.slyffh.com.
(special notice)