James Steiger

James Lawrence Steiger was born May 26, 1939 to Alma and Lawrence Steiger. He was a proud resident of Brecksville Ohio and Graduated in 1957. That same year he joined the Navy and began his four-year adventure around the world on board the USS Kleinsmith, where he served as the ships H.A.M. radio operator. Perhaps his most memorable stop was the Antarctic, ask him and he could talk for hours about meeting and playing with penguins on the ice. He also made lifelong friends who he continued to have Navy reunion with up until just a few years ago. He was the OG of corny jokes. Some of these jokes will be told for decades to come. He quietly contributed to many charities not expecting praise or even acknowledgement. He always worked two or more jobs to keep his family secure.

James was known by many names, Jim, Jimmy, Dad, Uncle Jim, Mr. Steiger, K8YTW, and probably his favorite Daga (Grandad). He was strong willed, some would say stuck in his ways, but it was always for his family. His stubborn side has been passed down to his kids and grandkids. He met Elizabeth McMillan at an Irish dance hall and they went on to build their family in Seven Hills Ohio, where he was well known to many a city leader for his “very helpful” suggestions. He bought his first house there and never left. Everyone knew the house because of the 90-foot tower he built and used for many years to continue as a H.A.M. radio operator, thus the K8YTW handle. He became a pretty darn good banjo player (self-taught) and loved to fish and camp. He especially loved his trips to Canada and Pymatuning. He became a Parma Heights Firefighter/EMT, where he retired as a Lieutenant. He was so very proud of his career, not to mention how proud he was of his son and grandson who also were and are firefighters, following in his bootsteps.

He passed on his birthday, which he wanted to do, it was also Memorial Day, this was fitting because of his service in the Navy. You are never quite ready for someone you love to go, but he was ready and had all things in order. He will be missed and thought of every day. He was proceeded in death by many friends and family who will look forward to seeing him again. He leaves behind many good stories and things we will never forget. Thanks for everything Dad, we all love you!!

In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to a charity of your choice in his name.

We’re honoring his wishes by not holding a ceremony or showing.