James Deslandes

James Howard Michael Deslandes, 51, of Bellefontaine passed away Monday afternoon, August 17, 2015 at Heartland of Bellefontaine surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Jim was born in Bellefontaine on November 9, 1963 to the late James Carey and Ruth Ann (Deslandes) Strickland who survives in Bellefontaine.

He is also survived by his children: Jacob Gerdeman who is stationed in Italy with the US Navy, Jessica Gerdeman who is a sophomore in college and Jamee Gerdeman who is a senior in high school; step-sister Shierra Strickland of Phoenix; siblings: Eric Deslandes-McKoy of Urbana, Chad Carey of Bellefontaine, Cicely Watkins of Toledo and Justin Strickland of Indiana; significant other and loved one Jackie Edmister of Bellefontaine; nieces and nephews: Javonn, Keyne, Jaymen, Justine, Kadren, Jaxen, Karis, Kale, Will, Patrick and Ruthie; special lifelong friend Donavan Walker of Alabama; and a number of aunts, uncles, friends and extended family.

Everybody knew Jim as masonary worker and knew he was a “salesman.” He will be missed and remembered by all.

A celebration of Jim’s life with a balloon release will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2015 at 11am at Mary Rutan Park, Bellefontaine (across from the pool).

The Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home, Bellefontaine assisted the family with arrangements.

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