James J. "Jim" Kokinda's Obituary
James J. "Jim" Kokinda, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and active member of his community, passed away on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at Mercy New Life Hospice. He was 82 years old.
Jim was born on October 1, 1940, in Lorain, Ohio, to George and Mary (nee Deliman) Kokinda. He attended Lorain High School and graduated in 1958. Continuing his education, Jim pursued a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from San Diego State University, which he earned in 1963.
Jim's professional journey led him to the aerospace hardware industry in California, where he gained valuable experience. Eventually, he embarked on his entrepreneurial path and established his own manufacturing facility, Aero Flite of Ohio, in Lorain. Later in his career, he served as the manager of the Russo-Slav Club.
Throughout his life, Jim held a deep passion for politics and his hometown of Lorain. He served as a member of Lorain City Council for eight years, dedicating his time and efforts to bettering the city. He also contributed to political campaigns, serving as the Northern Ohio Campaign Manager for U.S. Senator Metzenbaum and coordinating numerous statewide and district campaigns for various candidates. Jim's dedication to his community extended to his role as Chairman of the Lorain City Democrat Central Committee.
Faith played a significant role in Jim's life, and he was a member of St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church. He served as the Chairman of the Building Committee for the construction of a new School and Church complex. Additionally, Jim actively participated in various community organizations, including Lorain Little League, several PTA's, and High School Booster Clubs.
After his wife, Arlene, retired as Clerk of Council, the couple decided to relocate to Hilton Head Island, SC. There, they embarked on a successful venture in real estate, developing 95 commercial and residential properties. They also managed short and long-term rental properties. For nearly three decades, they resided in the Long Cove Club, where Jim became a member of the Men's Golf Association. He took pleasure in playing golf in England, Scotland, Ireland, and Spain, cherishing his two hole-in-one trophies on his home course.
Travel was another of Jim's passions. He and his wife explored all 50 states of the United States, as well as embarked on extensive journeys throughout Europe, Egypt, China, and Russia. They also traced their ancestral origins in Slovakia and Croatia, connecting with their heritage.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Arlene (nee Rozic) Kokinda; his children, James N. Kokinda of Lorain, Karen Moran of Matthews, NC, and Janet (Jim) McGee of Mentor; his grandchildren, Meghan Moran, Abigail Moran, Jenna McGee, and Amanda McGee; and his sister, Kathleen Kokinda of Oakwood Village, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary Kokinda; his brothers, George and Joseph Kokinda; and his sister, Mary Ellen Kokinda-Pazder.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 16, 2023, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, located at 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. A Parastas service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday following the visitation. A Panachida will take place on Monday, July 17th, at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral center, followed by Divine Liturgy at 11:00 a.m. at St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church, located at 2711 W. 40th Street, Lorain, OH 44053. Reverend Father Andrew Nagrant, Pastor, will officiate the services. A private family interment will be held at a later date at Ridge Hill Memorial Park in Amherst Township.
Expressions of sympathy and online condolences may be left for the family at www.dovinreberjones.com
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