Donald James “Jim” Vandermark, 70, Akron, passed 7:34 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015, at his residence after a battle with cancer.

He was born on Jan. 30, 1945, in Pensacola, Fla. to Orville and Helen (Grossnickle) Vandermark.

He was married on Jan. 20, 1990, in Akron at the Akron Church of God to Pamela S. Day she survives.

He owned Vandermark Heating and Plumbing of North Manchester and was head of the Park Department in North Manchester for a few years. He graduated in 1963 from Manchester High School. He then attended Manchester College and later graduated from Ball State University. He played basketball, baseball, and football in High School and football at Manchester College. Jim served his country in the U.S. Navy Seabees serving from July 30, 1969 to Jan. 18, 1972 with two tours in Vietnam. He was a member of the North Manchester American Legion. He played softball in adult leagues for many years playing third base. Jim loved to watch his sons, stepsons, and grandchildren at sporting events. He liked to watch IU, Notre Dame, Cubs, and the Colts play as well as his beloved Yankees. He enjoyed sitting at the “round table” at the coffee shop discussing many topics.

Donald is survived by his wife: Pam Vandermark, Akron; sons: Jared (Kimberly) Vandermark, Shreveport, La.; David (Donna) Vandermark, Blue Springs, Mo.; David (Angela) Madeford, Akron; David (Angela) Madeford, Akron; Scott (Tiffany) Cooksey, Akron; Kevin (Carrie) Cooksey, Silver Lake; daughter: Leann (John) Carr, Hardeeville, S.C.; grandchildren: Vince Vandermark; Lorelai Vandermark; Devin; Thane; Bryce Madeford; Ian and Ella Cooksey; and Alyx; Blake; and Lillian Cooksey; sisters: Nancy (Niel) Tate, North Manchester; Judy (Jerry) Judjahn, Glendale, Ariz.; several nieces; nephews; great-nieces; and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by parents: Orville and Helen Vandermark.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, with military rites performed after the funeral service at the funeral home. They will be officiated by JP Freeman and Rev. Dr. Tara Bidwell Hornbacker. Burial will be at Akron Cemetery, Akron.

Memorial Contributions to: Wounded Warrior Fund or the Akron Church of God