James Mackert

James Frederick Mackert, age 88, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, February 13, 2025. He was born on September 28, 1936 in Lakewood, to the late Albert and Pearl (nee Leonard) Mackert.

A 1954 graduate of Lakewood High School, he ran two years of cross-country at Lakewood as a member of the state runner-up team in 1952 and state championship team in 1953 finishing seventh overall in 1953. He was an Army veteran and retired from the Glidden Paint Company after 35 years. As a second career, he officiated softball and volleyball for 36 years, up until his passing.

Jim was always smiling and never sat still. A resident of Elyria for 63 years, he was a member of St. Jude’s Church. Over the years his hobbies included ping pong, softball, bowling, fishing, gardening, and playing the piano and accordion; but his true passion was running, which he did up until his passing. He ran the Boston Marathon 3 times and currently holds the record (45) for the most Cleveland Marathons. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Elyria Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lois (nee Lengyel); his brother, Paul (Jacqueline) Mackert, Sr. Rita Mackert; twin sister,Janet Ravotti; sister-in-law, Norma Lengyel; children, Joe (Nohemy), Lisa (Joe) Stayer, Tim, Lora (John) Pritt, and Steve; grandchildren, Lauren, Jordan (Johnny), Jared, Jimmy, Jonathan, Rachel, DJ (Halle), Emilie, and Luke; and great-grandchildren, Zoey, John, Leo, Amoura, Emilia and Michael.

He was preceded in death by siblings, Virginia (Albert) Geiger, Lawrence, Fr. Albert Mackert, Pearl (James) Olearecik, Earl (Carol) Mackert, Mark (Mary) Mackert; brother-in-law, John Ravotti, Sr.; beloved aunt, Elvira (Steven) Wieland; son, James Michael Mackert; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation for family and friends is scheduled from 4:00 - 8:00 pm on Friday, February 21 at Reichlin Roberts Bollinger Funeral Home, 327 Cleveland Street, Elyria. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 22 at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, 2640 Stoney Ridge Road, Avon, Ohio 44011, with burial at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Cemetery immediately following. A luncheon is scheduled afterward.

www.reichlinrobertsbollinger.com