James Murray Falvey

James Murray Falvey, age 87, ascended to a Loving God on September 20, 2021, with family by his side. Jim was born on September 30, 1933, in Detroit to the late James P. and Eleanor (Murray) Falvey. Jim was also preceded in death by brothers, William and Tom Falvey (Alice) and nieces, Anne and Mary Frances and nephew Chris. He is survived by daughters Ellen Lynch (Mike), Kathleen Brown (Brian), Maureen Falvey (Robert) and Patricia Falvey (Cathy) and their mother and former wife Martha Moloney; grandchildren, Collin, Bryden, M.E., Kevin, Katie, Brendan, Charlotte, and Mary; and nephew Pat Falvey and niece Robin Falvey Ayers. His life was further enriched and blessed by his former spouse, best friend and companion Sharon Falvey and her children Karen (Sierra) and Eric (Caitin) Marquardt and grandchildren; Zoey (Cody), Sage, Dash, Leika and Maura. His continued friendships with Martha and Sharon were rare and precious for all involved. Jim had a great sense of pride in Toledo. He graduated from DeVilbiss High School in 1951. He attended the University of Toledo, where he was an active member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and graduated with a degree in business. He served in the United States Army and enjoyed a successful business career starting with Owens Illinois in the International division. It was during this time; he was on DL flight 841 which was hijacked en route to Miami. Thankfully, no passengers were harmed. It was a story he loved to tell because one hijacker brought his son with him and in the midst of taking over the plane Jim heard the sweet voice of a child say “Hi Daddy” to the man who was armed with a large weapon as he walked down the aisle. Later he enjoyed owning Steger-Showel, where as president he brought the company to great success. He served on numerous boards from Ohio Citizens Bank to the Toledo Symphony and appreciated any opportunity to be of service. His greatest success, however, was attained by the laughter and love he brought his family and everyone he met. Jim was known as “Mr. Wonderful” due to his inherent ability to entertain and to connect with others from all walks of life. Jim enjoyed boating on Lake Erie, history, reading, the symphony, opera and spending quality time and telling stories with his many friends - some going as far back to his childhood in Old Orchard and some who he may have met just that day. He made people feel at ease and was there for people when they were going through challenges and encouraged all of us to show up in these times as well. He was fun loving, but he had a deeper side too and sought personal growth throughout his life. He learned and taught us that quality of relationships matter more than financial success and community accolades. He, like all of us, had trials in this life but did not let them diminish his sense of humor or his belief in the goodness of people. He, like all of us, made mistakes but he, like so few, was willing to listen and make amends when needed. Jim knew a loving God who he leaned on in life and who brought him Home to eternal life where we trust the Angels were singing an Irish tune for a life well lived. Family and friends are invited to visit and celebrate Jim’s life at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 16, 2021, at an outdoor service with military honors at Calvary Cemetery (please meet at the Parkside gates at 10:50 am). In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim’s name are suggested to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.