James G. Boots Sr., 75, of North Sewickley Twp., passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at his residence.
Born July 17, 1945 in Ellwood City, he was the son of the late Wilbur and Eleanor Koach Boots. He was married to the love of his life, Susan Hammerle Boots for 50 years, she survives.
Jim was a 1965 graduate of Riverside High School. An accomplished athlete, he set Riverside’s long jump record and held it for over 37 years. He was an avid golfer and loved to play with his best friends and his son. Jim was also an avid Cleveland sports fan and loved to watch the Indians, Cavaliers and Browns. His dedication was rewarded with the 2016 NBA championship and he was awarded the opportunity to throw out the first pitch for the Cleveland Indians on September 11, 2017. He was an active member of the Concord United Methodist Church, where he served on various committees. A decorated Vietnam Veteran, Jim received the Silver and Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart during his service. He was inducted into the Solders and Sailors Hall of Valor in Pittsburgh In 2013. He worked and retired from Conrail in Conway, where he was a train conductor for 23 years. He enjoyed watching old westerns on TV and reading about presidential and military history. He kept the Bible next to his favorite chair so he could read from it daily. His family and his grandchildren were his entire world. Nothing made him happier than to spend time with his family and watch his grandchildren participate in all of their activities. He especially loved ice cream!! His smile, laughter and genuine warm demeanor welcomed everyone he met. Jim always made people feel good for having been around him and he left a lasting impression on all he knew.
Surviving with his wife Susan, are a son, James (Kim) Boots Jr, daughter, Jennifer (Robert) Zupanek, all of Boardman, Ohio; two brothers, Wilbur (Mary Jane) Boots of Fombell, Donald Boots of West Pittsburg; and four grandchildren, Caleb, Sarah, Ethan, and Connor.
Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, August 2 from 1-3 and 5 until the time of the funeral service at 7 pm at the Marshall Funeral Home, Ellwood City. Please adhere to Covid-19 protocol and wear a mask. Pastor Chris Kindle will officiate. Private interment will take place in the Concord United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com <https://marshallsfh.com/>.
Jim was a wonderful neighbor and friend. His smile warmed every one’s hearts. Jim was a humble loving man. He would help everyone with a smile. He will be missed.
Our heartfelt condolences to sue and rest of the family .wishing you strength and peace during this hardship
Dr & mrs swamy
Our deeply felt sympathy and condolences for everyone. We have you in our prayers.
Much love to all.
Jim was such a joyous person and always had such kind words to share. Jim was one of my dad’s best friends for so many years. I grew up knowing the whole Boots family. He will be deeply missed by our family. Much love and many prayers to the entire family. Love Kristen ‘Krissy’ Harris Essey
So sorry for your (our) loss. Jim was such a humble individual and a pleasure to be around. Growing up in the same neighborhood, all the baseball games, we got to know each other well. We reconnected when Jim started playing the Fox Run Golf course and I retired and started working in the pro shop. We swapped plenty of stories about the old neighborhood. Praying for the family, he will be missed. JOE DOWNS
Jimmy and Family,
So sorry for your loss. Your dad was a great guy, always smiling. I hope you and your family find peace during this difficult time.
Bryan Downs and family
I knew Jim for a short time from church. He was of the finest character and a hero. I was blessed to have known him and God is blessed to have him.
I appreciated the way he would stick around after 2nd worship service when the bell choir played. He’d help me put bells away. He liked to tease me about his trips to Myrtle Beach because he knew it’s my favorite vacation spot. He will be missed.
While visiting Ohio from Australia we were lucky to meet Jim at an “American BBQ” being held for us. We finished the meal with lots of flavoured icecream which he loved as much as we did. We had lots of laughs that night and our memories of Jim will be with us forever. Our love and prayers go out to all the Boot’s family.
My sincere condolences Susan. Jim was the best. He could always make me smile. We loved our visits when you both came to Myrtle Beach. I know he will be playing golf with Roger in heaven. Much love, Anne Yearick