James John Whitelaw

JAMES JOHN WHITELAW, age 89 of Chagrin Falls passed away on November 5, 2026. Beloved husband of Claudette; loving father of Eric (Jennifer), and late Kevin Whitelaw; cherished brother of David (Diane) Whitelaw; dearest grandfather of Matthew, Jonathan, Sarah, and Timothy; dear brother-in-law of Joanne (late Paul) Ruxin. Jim was from Cleveland. He grew up in Cuyahoga Heights and attended Cuyahoga Heights schools. After high school, Jim didn’t know what he wanted to do for a career. He decided to join the U.S. Marine Corps. He ended up in California, where he felt it was a very good choice for him. He learned a lot and matured with the experiences.

Jim decided to go to college. He enrolled at Hiram College, a small, liberal arts school that he found filled his educational needs and interests, and an atmosphere he loved. Jim met his future wife at Hiram, and they married in 1961 for a long marriage of 65 years. Jim was a physical education teacher for many years. He loved his years, working with many young, enthusiastic students. Friends and family are welcome to the Federated Church, 76 Bell Street, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 on Saturday, November 21 at 1 P.M. for a funeral service. Burial to follow at Crown Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The Kidney Foundation in loving memory of Jim.