Joseph James Dukles' Obituary
Joseph James “Jim” Dukles passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving children. He is survived by Dianne Price (Rich), Linda Koteles (Wayne, d. 2022), Christine Banta (Robert), Laura Byrnes (Jim), James, Marc and Amy Bukala (Ron).
Shortly after graduating from West Technical High School in 1953 as a star athlete, Jim married Rosemarie Mino, the loving mother of his seven children. Rosemarie passed away in 2008.
Jim was a proud grandfather to Alexandria, Ryan (Ashley), Michael (Victoria), Scott (Marisa), Paul (Natalia), Luke, Kelly (Mo), Kevin (Akanksha), Shaun, Ashley (Meleke), Lindsey, Hayley (Isaac), Andrew (Emily) and Sarah (Anthony). His legacy continues through 13 great-grandchildren, Riley, Kaia, Jordan, Ava, Anthony, Dominic, Alaina, Mason, Audrey, Adam, Kieran, Zaidyn and Wyatt. He also leaves behind 22 nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his niece and nephew, Lisa and Edward Mino.
His loyal companion, Gunner—a silver lab affectionately known as “Buddy Boy”—was faithfully by his side until the very end.
Jim was born in Buffalo, Ohio, the eldest child of Joseph and Anna Dukles (née Dorgay Sedor). He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Norma Kappel (Ray). He is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Thomas (Mary Lou), Kathy Jurcsisn (John), David (Janet) and John (Jean).
Jim had deep roots in Lakewood’s “Birdtown” neighborhood, where his family ran the Dowd Avenue Market and attended St. Gregory the Theologian Byzantine Catholic Church. Warm memories of Easter and Christmas family gatherings have made lasting impressions on his children, including making pierogis at Christmas and cidek at Easter. Jim maintained close bonds with cousins, John “Bub” Sedor and Judy Addison (née Sedor). Though Jim lived in several places, he found particular peace in his homestead in Millersburg, Ohio, where his love of the land endured.
He is also survived by his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Edward and Mildred Mino, Raymond and Penny Mino and Mary Ellen Mino. He was preceded in death by Bettianne Singler (née Mino), John Singler and Lawrence Mino.
Jim was known for his ingenuity, business acumen and unwavering work ethic. In 1969, he founded DuWest Tool & Die in Cleveland, Ohio—a business later operated by his sons until 2025. He was always ready with a helping hand and offered love and support to his children and extended family.
He found joy in the outdoors, especially while boating and fishing on Lake Erie—whether alone or surrounded by friends and family. He was a proud member of Forest City and Westlake Yacht Clubs.
Jim is remembered for his devotion to family, his quiet strength and the lasting impact he made on the lives of those who knew him.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 6245 Columbia Rd., North Olmsted. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. A prayer service, led by his nephew, Reverend John P. Singler, will be held at 12:00 p.m. Joseph will be laid to rest privately at Sunset Memorial Park, North Olmsted, Ohio.
Donations may be made to the Rescue Inn P.O. 246 North Olmsted, Oh 44070.
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