James Edwin Crosby Jr.

James Edwin Crosby Jr., 87 of Oak Harbor, OH died Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at his home under hospice care. He was born June 12, 1934 in Sandusky, OH to the late James E. Crosby Sr. and Queenie (Wilkins) Floro. He married Bonnie J. Biggert on July 18, 1959. She preceded him in death on August 29, 2021. Shortly before his 48th birthday, Jim suffered a severe stroke that dramatically and forever changed his life. He was forced to retire from the GTE Company where he worked as a Switching Services Technician repairing sensitive complex equipment. Prior to his stroke, he had been a charter member of the Carroll Township Fire and EMS Departments. He became both a firefighter and EMT. He proudly served as the overall Chief of Department. Jim was a charter member of the Toussaint Founders Club. He was a very active member of both organizations. Family and friends have memories of a man strong and smart. He certainly was unique and adventurous. Despite life’s challenges he remained active and lived at home his entire life. Always tinkering around and doing something. You could find him outside daily tending to plants and bird feeders. Jim really liked the birds that came to visit, except for blackbirds. He would frequently remind them they weren’t invited. Jim and Bonnie would have daily competitions to claim bragging rights as the best computer solitaire player. He was heartbroken by Bonnie’s death. They are both sadly missed. Survivors include his son James “Bud” (Mary) Crosby of Sylvania Township, OH; daughters: Sue (Hank) Perrin and Luann (Billy) Vidal both of Oak Harbor; grandchildren: Jacob Bebow, Henry Perrin, Savannah Vidal, Danny Vidal, and Sammy Vidal. He was also preceded in death by his sister Christine Demshok and brother Clifton Swigart. Services will be handled privately with burial to be in Rusha Cemetery, Carroll Township. Memorial contributions may be given to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.crosserpriesmanfuneralhome.com.