James Peter Destefani

James Peter Destefani, 77, of New Philadelphia, died peacefully early Sunday morning in Union Hospital following a sudden illness. Born in his family home near New Philadelphia, January 16, 1927, he was a son of the late Gerardo and Anna Dusini Destefani. James was considered the rock of his family. He was the youngest of four boys, and in his youth learned the value of a day’s work. At the age of 14, he began driving trucks for his family which operated the former Sharon Valley Coal Company. Following his service in the military during World War II, he returned to his family business until 1955 when he became affiliated with the Ridge Tool Company where he worked as an inspector for many years. In 1986, following his retirement, James earned his Graduation Equivalency Degree.He had initially attended a one-room, eight grade schoolhouse near his home named Schlaflay School. Mr. Destefani was a life member of the former Fraternal Order of Eagles, The Knights of Columbus, Post #1445 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Sacred Heart Church all of New Philadelphia. At home, he loved to tend to his garden, spend time with his family and his mini-schnauzer “Buddy”.Survivors include his wife of fifty-one years whom he wed October 25, 1952 Mary Buckohr Destefani. Together they raised a daughter, Susan Destefani of New Philadelphia, and two sons, James (Dianne) Destefani of Ann Arbor, MI, and Jerry A. Destefani of Dover. He’ll be sadly missed by five grandchildren, Sara, Elizabeth, Michelle, David and Debra, and two sisters; Lena Calai and Margaret Kopp.In addition to his parents, James is preceded in death by brothers Charles, Frank and Louis Destefani and a sister Teresa Mattevi.Friends are invited to call Tuesday from 5-8 PM at the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory of New Philadelphia where Christian wake services will be held at 7:45 PM. Father Martin Ralko will celebrate a funeral mass Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 in Sacred Heart Church. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, New Philadelphia, where military graveside services will be rendered by the New Philadelphia Post 1445 Honor Guard. Following the committal service, a reception will be given in St. Ambrose Hall, adjacent to Sacred Heart Church. Those unable to attend are invited to send condolences to the family, sign an online guest registry, and view a memorial to Mr. Destefani by visiting the funeral home’s website. Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Church, 139 Third Street NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.