Deacon James K. Debrason, 69, Permanent Deacon of St. Anthony of Pauda

Jim was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, on July 11, 1938. He moved to Lorain, Ohio, in 1948 and was a life long resident. He graduated from Lorain High School in 1956 and served in the U. S. Navy from 1956 to 1958. Jim was a manager in the BOP Shop at USS/Kobe Steel Company for 25 years and retired in 1998.

Upon retirement Jim attended deaconate formation for four years resulting in his ordination in 2003. He was assigned as a Permanent Deacon at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Although his time as a Deacon was short, he enjoyed presiding over many Baptisms, Weddings, Funerals, and assisting at Mass. Many found his homilies to be inspiring and comforting. His faith provided him with great joy and he felt he was truly blessed to serve. Jim enjoyed boating on Lake Erie, fishing with his son, playing golf with his daughters, entertaining his grandchildren, and traveling with his wife. He has truly touched many lives with his warmth, compassion, storytelling, and his charming sense of humor.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years Irene (nee Szymanel), daughters Susan (Jeff) Miller, Nancy (Jack) Yakovich, Chris (Ron) Jacobs, son James, sister Kathy (Jack) Hall, and grandchildren Brian, Megan, Cory, Kyle, Zach, and Maddie. He was preceded in death by his parents Kalman and Agnes (nee Aytai), and sister Avis.

Friends may call Wednesday, April 30th, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 1305 East Erie Ave, Lorain. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Thursday, May 1st, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. The Most Reverend Richard G. Lennon, Bishop, Diocese of Cleveland, will officiate Fr. Joseph West, O.F.M. Conv., pastor, will be the homilist. Burial will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park, Amherst Township.