James “Jim” Sikler, 90, of Amelia Island, FL passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Born on July 19, 1934 in Cleveland, OH, he was the son of the late James Sikler and Joan Parciak. He graduated from Collinwood High School in 1952 and then obtained his undergraduate and master degrees from Kent State University. He also served two years in the Army as a saxophone player in the Army band. After the Army, he spent years playing in a band that performed at weddings in the Cleveland area and they also made a polka album. Jim worked as an educator and became superintendent of schools. Following his 30-year retirement from education, he moved to Pinehurst, NC where he enjoyed a second career as a medical administrator for a large multispecialty clinic. Jim provided an incredible example for his family through his hard work and dedication to his careers. He enjoyed working, and he did not fully retire until his early 70’s. He was also inducted into the Collinwood High School Hall of Fame in 2008.
Throughout his life, Jim was an avid Cleveland sports fan. He loved the Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Guardians, and if the games were not on TV, he constantly watched for score updates. After moving to NC (and even though his daughter went to UNC), he became a Duke basketball and Coach K fanatic. He was an all-around sports guy and enjoyed playing golf until well into his 80’s. Jim enjoyed eating good food but always within moderation, and his great-grandson named him “Oreo Man” because he would only have one Oreo after dinner. Jim was extremely regimented and organized and his family motto was “You’ve got to have a plan.” His family and friends knew Jim for his dry sense of humor—he loved to joke around and tease. But most importantly, he will be remembered for his unending love, constant support, and always being so deeply proud of his family.
Jim is survived by his wife of 52 years, Cheryl Sikler of Amelia Island, FL; daughter Kellie Phillips (Kevin) of Conover, NC; daughter-in-law Susan Sikler of Cuyahoga Falls, OH; grandchildren Madison Phillips and Jack Phillips of Conover, NC, Thomas Sikler and Daniel Sikler of Jacksonville, FL and Stephen Sikler (Taylor) of Cuyahoga Falls, OH; and great-grandchild Emiliano Sikler of Cuyahoga Falls, OH.
In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his sons James L. Sikler and Thomas M. Sikler.
Donations may be made in his memory to Community Hospice- Jane and Bill Warner Center for Caring, 1348 South 18th St, Suite 101, Baptist Medical Center, Nassau Medical Building Office B, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 or https://thefoundationcares.org/.give/.