James R Engel
James R Engel, 64, of Cape Coral, Fla., and formerly Put-in-Bay, Ohio, crossed over the rainbow bridge to pick up his best kitty friend, Rudder, on his way to Heaven at 12:55 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024. He was born on Oct. 21, 1960.
Jim attended Cleveland Aviation High School. He served as supervisor for Swissport at RSW, Fort Myers Regional Airport.
He was always known for his quick wit and humor, the ability to make anyone laugh, his Jerry Lewis impressions and his incredible musical talents. He had a great love for aviation, astronomy and the Florida boating life.
His talent to be able to play any instrument you handed him led him to be the founder of the best rock and roll band that Put-in-Bay has ever seen, Ben Dover and the Screamers. While living on the island, he worked for Miller Boat Line and the Village Bakery, plus did paint contracting before relocating to Florida.
Jim is survived by his life partner of 39 years, Christina Morris; his siblings, Carol Engel, Rob (Fran) Engel, Ray Engel, Larry (Christie) Engel, Lisa (Scott) Finley and Eric (Julie) Engel; and so many nieces, nephews and friends that loved him to the moon and back.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Ruth (nee Popovich) Engel; and his father, Bob Engel.
The family would like to thank Steve Stapleton for his company, support and love throughout their friendship, but especially during Jim’s final days.
A Catholic Mass will be held on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at 11:30 a.m., at the Mother of Sorrows Church, 620 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay, with a graveside burial at Crown Hill Cemetery in Put-in-Bay. The family will receive friends immediately following the burial in the Church Fellowship Hall, The Cornerstone Room.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.
