James "Jim" Allan Mcdonald

James “Jim” Allan McDonald of Dover, 78, passed away on Sunday, July 10th, 2022 following a lengthy battle with the effects of Covid-19. Born January 15, 1944 in Dennison to the late Robert J and Virginia J McDonald, Jim was known for his love of sports, support of the arts, and great sense of humor. He loved to make people laugh, even when he was not feeling well. Jim was always thinking of others and trying to make them feel better.

In 1962, Jim graduated from Dover High School where he met his high school sweetheart, Nancy Sackett. They were married October 18, 1963 and together built a beautiful family and legacy. After high school, Jim worked for several years as a mechanic at Potschner’s Garage in Dover. He used his skills as a mechanic to build and race stock cars at Midvale Raceway. He then went on to Carter Lumber where he eventually became the manager and continued to work there for 22 years. In 1987, Jim and Nancy bought The Rootbeer Stand and created Fundays on the Boulevard.

Jim always supported his wife and children in their artistic endeavors. After selling Fundays, Jim and Nancy started McDonald Niklaus Framing with their daughter Jody. He assembled frames until he retired. Jim and Nancy enjoyed traveling to watch their son Thomas play in bands every chance they could get. Their love for music and art was evident in their support of local organizations, including being a sponsor of the Performing Arts Center at Kent State Tuscarawas. From a very young age, Jim loved sports. While in high school, he played baseball, basketball, and football and was particularly skilled as a baseball pitcher. Jim continued to love watching sports and supporting the Cleveland sports teams. He never missed an opportunity to know the score, even when he was in the hospital. Jim also loved traveling with Nancy, and they took yearly trips throughout the country. They particularly enjoyed traveling to Maine where Nancy painted and participated in art workshops while Jim captured their memories through photographs.

Jim is survived by his son Thomas (Eileen) McDonald of Copley, OH and daughter, Jody Niklaus of Dover, OH, four grandchildren: Colin McDonald, Sydney McDonald, Delaney Niklaus, and Sawyer Niklaus, as well as his brother Ron (Carol) McDonald. He was preceded in death by his wife Nancy.

Per Jim’s wishes there will be no calling hours or services. Memorial contributions can be made to the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank. Meanwhile, Jim and Nancy are traveling together again in Glory. The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover are handling arrangements.