James L. Craven, of Akron, Ohio, born June 13, 1925, passed away on his

96th birthday.  James was a Navy veteran of WWII stationed in the South

Pacific.  After the war he went on to join the Akron Police Force, where

he rose through the ranks to sergeant and served for 41 years, 7 months,

and 14 days.  James was recognized for his ability to diffuse hostile

situations and was very proud of never needing to fire his weapon in all

his years of service.

James also said helping others was the most rewarding part of his job.

He once saved a woman from freezing to death in her vehicle. After she

was warm, he got her something to eat, filled her gas tank, gave her

$20.00, and sent her on her way.  This is just one of the many stories

he'd love to share with his family over the years.  He always said,

"There is no such thing as a bad cake.", and his favorite flavor of ice

cream is "cold!"

James was a  member of St. Paul's Catholic Parish, The Fraternal Order

of Police, and The Eagles.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Alice, and second wife, Carolyn; son, Patrick; infant son, Timothy; and step-son, James Stults. His survivors include son, Thomas; daughter-in-law, Barbara; step-son, Gordon (Kay) Lange; step-daughter-in-law, Deb Stults; sisters, Betty Nelson and Florence Burroughs; brother, William; sister-in-law, Kathy Williams; brother-in-law, Erv Cormany;

8 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews and friends.

The family would like to recognize the staff of Pebble Creek and Elara Hospice for their professional and loving care.

Calling hours will be on Friday from 4 to7 p.m. at the Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home (811 Grant St.). Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Catholic Church (1580 Brown St, Akron). Burial with military honors will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the church.