James Christopher Staudt

Jim Staudt, a world traveler, outstanding athlete, artist, peace-maker and most importantly a friend to all, died unexpectedly of asthma-related complications at the age of 65 on Thursday, July 15.

Jim was born January 26, 1956 to Jean and Robert Staudt and lived the first 28 years of his life in and around West Akron. He attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School where he was a standout track star and football player. He earned a Bachelor of Business from the University of Akron and Master of Taxation from the University of Denver.

While his friends and family connections in Akron were immense, he chose a road less traveled and headed out to explore the world at the age of 28. His mantra was he would live life to the fullest while he was young and worry about old age when it happened. He was true to that quest.

His 35 years of traveling included a six month walkabout in the Australian Outback, managing a ranch in Arizona to traveling and living in South America, Europe, the Middle East and almost every state in the country. Wherever he went, Jim created friendships, unique artistic creations and memories to a last a lifetime.

Two and a half years ago, Jim left Denver to return to Akron to care for his aging mother. A role he recently said was the most important calling of his life. His selfless act brought peace to his mom as well as to his entire family.

After Jean Staudt’s death in 2020, Jim’s urge to wander and travel waned and he elected to stay in Akron and reconnect with family and friends. Ironically, after a lifetime of world travel and adventure, Jim died in the same zip code where he was born.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Robert C. and Jean A. Staudt and his brother in law, Larry McKay.  He is the first in his family of 14 children to pass away, leaving a gaping hole in the heart of a family that has been blessed with both longevity and love. He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Susan (Larry/deceased), Anne (Bill), Jean, Mary (George), Bob (Lisa), Pat (Bob), Joe (Monica), Mike (Kelly), John (Karie), Martha (Hans), Debbie (Matt), Nancy (Lee) and Ellen. He also leaves 26 nieces and nephews and 26 great nieces and nephews; as well as his beloved and equally adventurous cat, Pongal.

Calling hours will be SATURDAY July 24 from 9-10:30am at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, Fairlawn, OH 44333.  Jim will be cremated and additional services will be private.

Those wishing to make a contribution in Jim’s honor are asked to support a local humane society or cat shelter.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by. And that has made all the difference.” -- Robert Frost