James Melle

On April 6th, 2024 our beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather went home to be with the Lord, peacefully surrounded by his family. After a nearly year long battle with cancer, which he courageously fought in his usual selfless manner, his suffering ended at Kobacher.
James was born in Cleveland , Ohio on October 29, 1943 to Sophie and Emil (both deceased). He was one of seven children, Melvin (Lois), Gary (Mary Joan), Lois (Tony) (both deceased), Ermin (Pat), Monica (Danny), and Maryanne (Michael). He leaves behind his wife of 55 years Barbara Ellen (Nee Coyne), his daughters, Annie Aulert (Daniel), Kathleen Thornton (John), and son James. He also leaves behind his loving grandchildren James, Claire, Kate, Aisling, Addison, Sam and Caleb.
>>> He attended St. Joseph High School and John Carroll where he met his bride, Barbara. He then went to on to have an illustrious law career after he graduated from then Capitale Law in Cleveland Marshall College of law. His impact on the law literally can be felt throughout the State of Ohio. From his clerkship at the Federal Court in Cleveland, to Clerk for the Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court in Columbus, to his work for Governor Gilligan, followed by extensive private practice work at both The Lucas Law Firm and Buckley King. His legal work impacted so many throughout the 88 counties in Ohio.  His imprint on the law will be indelible. In addition to his accomplishments as an attorney he was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather. He was blessed with immense integrity in all facets of his life, a heart of gold, an infectious smile, and a great sense of humor. Everyone valued his opinion and knowledge and turned to him for advice. He loved traveling with family, fishing, and often surprised many with his disco dancing when he felt inspired. He was the life of the party without even trying.  He also was extremely well read and skilled in the art of debate on current events, sports, politics, the stock market, and journalism. He never shied away from providing his insight on any topic. His intelligence, wit, generous spirit, and humor will be greatly missed.
A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Peach Church on April 19, 2024 at 11:30am. 20 E. Dominion Road, Columbus, Ohio 43214. Visitation to be held from 10:00-11:30 am in the church gathering space. Reception to follow at Nationwide Conference Centre. Burial at All Souls Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio on April 20 at 1:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kobacker House. 

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