James Sterling,

James D. Sterling Sr. 82, died at 2:48 p.m. Feb. 13, 2010, at Baton Rouge Senior Health Facility. He was born Aug. 11, 1927, in Lima to James D. and Mildred Keller Sterling, who preceded him in death. On Sept. 11, 1948, he married Mary Lou Pohlabel, who survives in Lima. Mr. Sterling had worked as a lineman for Lima Telephone Co. and then retired from Ohio Power Co. after 35 years in August 1987. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from Jan. 28, 1947, to Jan. 27, 1950. He attended Lima Central High. He was a member of the Olivet Presbyterian Church until it closed and was currently a member of Shawnee Presbyterian Church. He was a life member of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 54, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275, Fraternal Order of Orioles Nest 173 and American Legion Post 96, where he was a past commander. He was also a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 370 and Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 199. Survivors also include three grandchildren, Nick (Sarah) Kennedy, Chaunci Kennedy, and Katie (Brian) Mears, all of Lima; and nine great-grandchildren, Taylor Klenke, Dustin Klenke, Nicole Klenke, Colson Kennedy, Morgan Kennedy, Kylee Kennedy, Sophie Kennedy, Rylee Dean, and Jenna Kennedy, all of Lima. He was preceded in death by a son, James D. Sterling Jr.; a daughter, Sherri Kennedy Gurgone; a granddaughter, Mindy Sterling; and two brothers, Thomas and Joseph Sterling. Services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. The Rev. Douglas Anthony will officiate. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima, with military rites by VFW Post 1275. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to an organization of the donor?s choice. Condolences may be expressed at www.chamber lainhuckeriede.com.