James Dioneff

James “Jim” Dioneff Sr, 87, of Ashtabula, passed away at UH Geauga Medical Center on September 28, 2021. He leaves behind several generations of family and many friends in the community. 

Jim is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bonita (Moore) Dioneff,whom he treasured.Together they had 7 children. He is also survived by his brother Boris (Shirley) Dioneff.

Jim leaves behind 6 living children: James (Katherine) Dioneff Jr., Craig “Scott” (Janet) Dioneff, Rodney (Bambi) Dioneff, Jeffrey Dioneff, Stacey Dioneff and Matthew Dioneff. 

He was deeply involved in the lives of his 20 grandchildren: Danielle, James III, Allie Kay,Tara, Manny, Kate, Dana, Jimbo, Curtis, Craig, Alex, Drew, Devin, Felecia, Marissa, Harley, Pali, Keleigh, Matthew Jr and Julia. 

Jim was adored by his 18 great-grandchildren: James IV, Charlotte, Sophia, Renee, Jeffrey, Elie, Scarlet, Savannah, Jeremy, Ron, Nate, Lilyanna, DyLynne, Danielle, Parker, Oliver, Brecian, and Isaiah. He is also survived by several great-great grandchildren, all of whom adored their “Dedo”. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gust and Silvia Dioneff, his brother, John, his sister, Helen Hazeltine, his daughter, Kim Renee Barks and his daughter-in-law Beth-Ann DiGiacomo. 

Jim was born in Lorraine, Ohio. He grew up working in his parent’s business, the Balkan Bakery, where he baked bread in a hearth oven with his father and grandfather. When he was old enough, Jim served his country in the United States Air Force. He later worked at General Tire and Olin Chemical before retiring at Cleveland Illuminating Company. He was a man of many talents, excelling in racing cars, hunting, charter boat fishing, coin collecting and puzzles of all kinds. He loved travelling with his wife to display the first car he ever owned, his pride and joy, a green 1932 Ford Coupe, at many, many car shows. For over a decade Jim could be found grabbing coffee with his friends at McDonalds early every morning. He loved camping with his children and spending time with his large family. Jim is revered as our Patriarch and will be deeply missed. Those who knew him can pay respects at Guerriero Funeral home on Saturday October 2nd. Calling hours are from 2pm-4pm. Celebration of Life starts at 4pm.

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