James A. Stender

James A. Stender of Barberton, Ohio, passed on June 8, 2025, just shy of his 85th birthday. Jim went to St. Augustine Catholic School, graduated from Barberton High School, earned his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Akron, and an MBA from Case Western Reserve University. Jim closed his long and productive engineering career in service of his hometown as the Utilities Director for the City of Barberton. The oldest of seven brothers and sisters, Jim is survived by his wife, Sharman Hawes Stender; daughters, Karen Stender Gondek and Sarah Stender Happ; sons-in-law, Joe Gondek and Brian Happ; six grandchildren, Kai, Torin, Dylan, Desmond, Theodore, and Gwendolen; and all six of his siblings, Alan, Tom, Bob, Jane, Barbara, and John, and their families. Jim loved his family and loved Barberton. In his youth, Jim and his parents, Myron and Arline, and siblings would spend enjoyable summer months at Brokates Farm. As he grew to a young adult, he explored North America by motorcycle, driving through Canada on three separate occasions. He was an activist for various causes and loved playing euchre in Barberton and all over Ohio, once winning a tournament with his daughter, Sarah, at Ohio State. Jim enjoyed travel and visited Japan for work, explored New England with his wife, Sharman, and his brother, Al, and often visited his daughter, Karen, in New York City and South Carolina. Jim was a life-long learner and believed in supporting education, public libraries, and conservationism. He loved good food, good drink, and the company of good people. He will be missed. There will be a small, private ceremony for Jim this summer. In lieu of flowers and visitations, donations and condolences can be sent to the Barberton Public Library. His family will receive all cards sent there and will be aware of any contributions made in honor of Jim. Barberton Public Library, Attn: Melissa Futrell, at 602 W. Park Ave., Barberton, Ohio 44203. Checks only with “In honor of James A. Stender” in the notes or in the card/letter. Condolences can also be posted on the tribute wall of Jim’s obituary page on the Campfield Hickman Collier Funeral Home website.

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