James F. Zerkle

James F. Zerkle, 86, of Weirton passed away at his home on Wednesday December 11, 2019. His loving family was at his side until he was greeted in heaven by his daughter Diana Lynn. Born in New Haven, WV, on August 26, 1933, Jim was the son of the late Thomas Capehart and Ila Mildred Zerkle Roush. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Diana Lynn Zerkle, in 2007; and his sister, Jane Wright. A graduate of the Weir High Class of 1953, Jim went to work in Weirton Steel for 40 years, retiring as a General Foreman in the Diesel Locomotive Shop. On his days off from the mill, Jim was an ambulance and service car driver for Greco Hertnick Funeral Home. Jim’s quiet and gentle nature earned him instant respect of all his coworkers, family and friends. He provided for his family, and never complained about any hardships he encountered along the way. You could always count on Jim Zerkle. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing with his friend, Jack McElwain, and wood crafting in his garage. He found relaxation sitting in his backyard or watching Pittsburgh sports teams on TV with his wife Bertha. Jim was a member of First United Methodist Church prior to joining Christ United Methodist Church. He also was a member for over 50 years of the A.F & A.M. Cumberland Lodge 22 and a member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry Valley of Wheeling 32nd degree since 1965. Jim will be remembered with love by his loving wife of 64 years, Bertha Veselica Zerkle, whom he married on June 11, 1955; his caring daughter, Tammie Zilich and her husband, Mark of Weirton, WV; his very close friend, Ryan (Alex) Weld of Wellsburg, WV; sister in law, Helen Marino many nieces and nephews, including Mark and Miki Marino and Bob and Debra Marino great nieces and nephews and great- great nieces and nephews. Visitation will be 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM Sunday at the Greco Hertnick Funeral Home 3219 Main Street Weirton. Funeral services will be conducted 11 AM Monday at the funeral home. Rev. Larry Barkley will preside. Entombment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hancock County Animal Shelter in honor of Jim’s love for his dogs. Jim’s family would like to thank Dr. Makar and his staff along with the caregivers of Valley Hospice for all the care they provided to Jim. Share tributes and memories at www.grecohertnick.com