James Charles, 58, Chief Financial Officer for Bettcher Industries for 29 Years

He was born November 12, 1947 in Shelby, OH and has been a Vermilion resident for the past 23 years. He often vacationed at his second home in Naples, FL.

He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ohio University, with a BS in mathematics. He was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society. He worked as the Chief Financial Officer for Bettcher Industries for 29 years. Previous work experiences were with BancSystems, as Controller and as Senior Auditor with Ernst & Ernst.

He was a member of the Vermilion Boat Club and former member of the Plum Brook Country Club. He was past treasurer of the Lorain County Historical Society and the Sandusky State Theatre. He was also past president of Crystal Cove Condominium Association. He belonged to the Ohio Society of CPA's and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He was among the Leaders & Believers Society of the Greater Lorain County United Way.

Survivors include his wife of 18 years, Joan Charles (nee Walker), son, J.C. Charles of Strongsville, 3 daughters: Heather MacKellar of Vermilion, Tamara Hallett of Bloomington, IN, and Jennifer Charles of Melbourne, FL , 5 grandchildren, and brother, Larry Charles of Leesburg, FL.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Howard and Helen (nee Fensch) Charles.

Friends may call Saturday from 9:30 a.m until the time of funeral services at 12:30 p.m. at the Riddle Funeral Home 5345 South St. Vermilion. The Reverend Terry Parker, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, will officiate.

Contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League of Lorain County, Inc., 8303 Murray Ridge Road, Elyria, Ohio 44035.