James "Jim" A. Doolittle

James A. "Jim" Doolittle "Dewey", 79, of Girard, passed away at home surrounded by friends and family on Monday, August 12, 2024. He was born on March 14, 1945, in Erie to the late Clarence and Lucile Doolittle.

Jim graduated from Rice Avenue Union High School in 1963 and stayed home to work at his father's business, The Elk Park Fur Post. He later went on to work at Rich Products, where he worked on the line. Jim worked there for 32 years, rising to the position Plant Manager and eventually of Head Supervisor of Human Resources. He also became the first president of his union and happily retired in 2002.

He was an avid outdoorsman, a passion that began at a young age while working at the fur post. This experience made him a master hunter and fisherman. Jim also had a fascination with antiques and could often be found at flea markets and yard sales searching for treasures. He loved spending time as an Assistant Scout Master for the local Boy Scout group. Jim also cherished time with his family, especially on Tuesday nights playing poker and Uno. He adored his grandchildren and was known for offering cookies from the cookie drawer to everyone, always making sure you took another one before you left.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sisters, Sandy Loop and Ellie Bartlett; son, Rolla Benton; stepbrother, Rocky Weislogel; and two grandchildren, Joseph and Josh Benton.

Jim leaves behind his beloved wife, Bette Doolittle; daughters, Connie Wise (Bill) and Melody Inman; sons, Charles Benton (Lisa) and Brian Benton (Tina); best friend, Bart Inman; as well as several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Edder Funeral Home Inc.

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