Jim Gavlenski
James “Jim” Gavlenski, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 29, 2020, at the age of 67.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James R. and Helen A. (Bugay) Gavlenski and sister, Trudy L. Kopczynski.
He is survived by his wife, Jamie Cireddu Gavlenski; daughters, Sarah Gavlenski and Amy (Chris) Merzbacher; sister, Betty (Jim) Alexander and brother-in-law, Joe Kopczynski.
Jim was married to his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Jamie, for 46 years. He was so proud of his daughters and loved them dearly. He was an avid golfer who was true to the game and would play rain or shine. He shared his love of golf with his daughter, Sarah, and they enjoyed filling divots together for many years. He never missed a marathon run by his daughter, Amy, cheering her on every step of the way. Jim and Amy pulled off one of the best father-daughter dances at her wedding. Jim loved being retired and taking road trips with Jamie.
Jim was a faithful volunteer at Ladies of Charity of Chattanooga, LLC and an usher at noon mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #6099. He joined Ferro Corporation of Cleveland, Ohio straight out of high school and enjoyed his many opportunities to grow within the company. During his 38 years at Ferro, “Flash” was always known to say how much he loved his job. Before retirement, Jim worked for Schilling Graphics of Galion, Ohio.
In 1972, Jim was drafted and served in the U.S. Army in South Korea.
Due to the current national health crisis, a private burial will be held on Friday at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held in Chattanooga and Cleveland, Ohio, once the health crisis has ended.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to Ladies of Charity of Chattanooga, LLC, 2821 Rossville Boulevard, Chattanooga, Tn. 37407 or to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 501 S. Moore Road, East Ridge, Tn. 37412.
Arrangements have been made by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 404 South Moore Road.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com.