James H. Donaldson 1938-2025

Born Aug. 24, 1938, in Lake Milton, Jim was the beloved son of Donald and Janette Donaldson.

Jim grew up in Canfield, graduating in 1956. He graduated from Tri-State University in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. He began his career with the Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation and later continued with Roth Brothers and Wean Engineering, as well as establishing business partnerships with close friends.

Jim married Barbara in 1959, and together they raised three children in the house his father built in Canfield. Their 30-year marriage was filled with adventures such as camping and cross-country family vacations.

Jim found love again with his partner, Bonnie, and they made their home in Richmond, Virginia. Together, they traveled extensively from coast to coast.

Jim devoted countless hours to three organizations that shaped his life. He belonged to the Canfield Ruritan, where he worked alongside community members to improve their hometown.

His passion for four-wheeling and racing led him to join the Tri-County 4 Wheelers, where he held most leadership roles, from secretary to president. It was in this club that Jim made his closest lifelong friends. His leadership in the four-wheeling community extended beyond local involvement when he became a founding member of the East Coast 4WD Association, serving as secretary, vice president and president, while helping unite similar clubs across the region.

Jim is survived by his loving partner, Bonnie Reid of Richmond, Virginia; his children, Ken (Fran) Donaldson of Youngstown and Satsuma, Florida, Sherrie (John) Jacobs of Canfield and Jacqueline (Fred) Goodwin of Annapolis, Maryland; his grandchildren, Brent (Krista) Donaldson of Boardman, Apryl (Phil) Donaldson of Negley, Liz Goodwin of San Francisco, Oscar Goodwin of Arlington, Virginia, and Troy Jacobs of Canfield; great-grandchildren, Kayden Goodwin and Jada Donaldson; siblings, Helen Semple and George Donaldson; several nieces and nephews; and Bonnie’s children, Matt (Laura) Reid and Dan (Jennifer) Reid, and their children.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Donald Donaldson, and his parents.

Jim’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the adventurous spirit he instilled in his family. His life was a testament to the importance of following one’s passions, having a lot of fun, while always making time for the people who matter most.

A celebration of life will be 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, at Davis Becker Family Center, 8536 Market St., Boardman, OH 44512.

(special notice)