James Brink

James A. Brink, 80, of Erie died on Tuesday December 6, 2022 at his home. 

He was born July 31, 1942 a son to the late Logan E. "Spike" and Lucy M. (Huggler) Brink.

James grew up in Ridgway, Pa. where he graduated highschool in 1961. He joined his family in Europe as his father was stationed in Germany during his military career. James and his brother traveled through Europe on their own enjoying the cultural experience. He returned home to Ridgway where he married Arlene T. Gillick (former spouse) and began working at Brink's Garage where he turned wrenches and painted for some years before moving to Allentown. Later In Erie, he worked for Mehler's Bottle Works distributing pop. He touched many lives during his routes with his humor and big heart.  He co-owned Crown Bottling Company for several years with Ron and Tom Sertz and later co-owned Arco station on 38th Street and Sterrettania Rd. with his Father Logan and brother Timmy Brink.  James tended bar sporadically at Luigi's Restaurant as well as the family owned Chevy’s Tavern occasionally cooking up his phenomenal fried fish. James then began driving with Allen Company, staying with the company for many years until retiring. 

He was an avid hunter and fisherman. James spent a lot of his time with his best buddy, Schneider and at his Camp and took many trips in Erie with his friends and family to enjoy days by the water side. The small group atmosphere was celebrated not always with fish but with love and laughter. He had refurbished a houseboat dubbed the Debutante which was enjoyed during many picnics and parties in the Presque Isle Bay. Annual trips to hunting camp and fishing during trout season were always looked forward to as were his many stories. He was one of the greatest storytellers of all time.

In addition to his parents James was preceded in death by his sister, Joyce M. Brink: brothers, Timothy J. and Thomas L. Brink. 

James will be greatly missed by his family which include his life partner and love of over 30 years, Mary Phillis; daughter, Mary "Lee" Fliss; step-daughter, Mychelle Serafine; sons: David B. and Michael J. Brink; step sons: Matthew Phillis (Stephanie Phillips) and Michael Metz; seven grandchildren: Angelique L. Fliss, Juliana "Julez" M. Fliss, Andrew "Chevy" Serafine, Samantha Serafine, Codi Serafine, Mckynzie Miles, and Hunter Phillis; and Three great-grandchildren: Aniyah Serafine, Kaiden Carpenter, and Nova Serafine. 

Loved by many,  The "Brinker" will be greatly missed.

With James wishes, no calling hours will be observed; a family gathering is to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the James Brink Memorial Fund C/O Edder Funeral Home Inc. 

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Edder Funeral Home Inc. Girard

To send condolences visit edderfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Brink, please visit our floral store.