James L. Rope Jr., age 85 of Perry Twp., passed away on Monday, December 9, 2013.

He was born in Massillon on February 26, 1928, son of the late James L and Ethel (McCulla) Rope.

James retired from LTV. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, AARP, K of C #554 3rd Degree, McKinley Eagles # 2370. He enjoyed bowling, fishing and plastic canvas crafts.

James is survived by daughter Deb Gepfrey of Perry Twp., daughter and son-in-law Mickey and Jim Miller of Perry Twp., son-in-law Rolly Shanklin of Perry Twp., brothers Gus (Maxine) Rope of Monroe, GA, Ron (Darla) Gaut of Canton, Jack Gaut of Canton, sisters Sandy Hawk of Canton, Kathy (Wayne) Cecil of Massillon, Susie Dobbins of Florida, grandchildren Rolly (Susan) Shanklin Jr., Jocelyn (James) Gaul, Rachel (Tate) Miller-McNutt and Jimmy (Christina) Miller Jr. and seven great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife June (Hastler) Rope who died in 2008, daughter Pat Shanklin who died in 2009, son-in-law Tim Gepfrey who died 2013 and two sisters.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2013 from 6 to 8 P.M. at Heitger Funeral Home - Massillon Chapel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 13, 2013 at 11 A.M, at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Edward Gretchko celebrant. Burial will follow at Sunset Hills Burial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Akron Children's Hospital.

Please leave condolences at www.heitger.com.

Heitger Funeral Home and Cremation Service - 330-833-3248