December 21, 2023

I remember when Jim came to us at Quail Hollow Country Club in Painesville, Ohio. I worked accross the street at the Diamond Shamrock Research Center at the time and we became good friends. What a great guy, happy, and had a smile on his face all the time. I am truely sorry to hear of his passing, he had a long bout with the horrible disease. God Bless Him.   
Lee Kozsey

December 20, 2023

Jim took a flyer on me and hired me as his Assistant right out of Penn St. in 1996.  The next two years would be a critical time in my developement and I can look back and say I would have never become the Supt. I was without those years under Jim’e tutelage.  Jim was demanding but fair and you always knew where you stood with Jim.  I’ll miss Jim’s smile and boisterous laugh, his sense of humor on and off the golf course and our discussions about hockey.  He taught me to work hard and play hard while enjoying every minute.  Jim was a mentor, a friend that had a profound effect on not only my career but my life.  Thanks for eveything Lokey, I’ll look forward to catching up with you on the back 9.  My condolenses to Karen, Kristen and Julie, may you find peace and love this Christmas season while reflecting on your cherished memories.

Ralph Meola

December 19, 2023

Sorry to read of Jims passing. My sincere condolences. Good friend, running partner, and golf buddy. I will miss him. Good luck to the family. Rich Keister

December 18, 2023

So sorry to see the loss of Jim. I served with him on the Northern Ohio Golf Course Superintendents Assoc and then worked with Jim when I was a sales Manager for Rain Bird and sold him the system at Brent Creek. We had fun together and he had an infectious smile. I missed seeing him. He was a friend and a professional
Alan Clark

December 18, 2023

Karen,  It was certainly a sad shock to see Jim’s picture in the paper.  I haven’t spoken with him in a few years, but will always treasure his sense of humor and kindness.  I specifically remember the look in his eye the morning he told me in no uncertain terms, that “you will remove the black satin sheets from the bed before nightfall”. (of course, only you will understand the significance of that statement). He was a great friend and a true gentleman. Please accept my condolences, as this is a difficult time for anybody, but especially in this Holiday Season.  Hopefully you can find Peace and Joy in future years at Christmas time.    Ann and Gary at Hillside Farm
Gary Lintner

December 17, 2023

Jim was one of the most Professional and courteous customers I had ever had.  Many memories from the Ciba-Geigy days.  He will be missed.
Gregg Schaner

December 17, 2023

We are so sorry to hear about Jim.  Although it has been a while since we have seen each other,  he meant a lot to us.  He was so understanding and helpful  not only concerning issues about turf but on so many things.
Please accept our deepest sympathy. 
Mark and Jean Esposito 

December 17, 2023

Dear Karen, 
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband after his long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.  My father in law is also fighting Parkinson’s and I am learning how difficult this journey is for the whole family.  Please know that the MTHS Art Department is keeping you and your family in our thoughts! 
Dave Bear  

December 17, 2023

We were so sorry to read about Jim’s passing. Our prayers go out to the family.
Sincerely, The Gargano family

December 17, 2023

Karen, many of we long-time Bent Creek members have fond memories of our “Lokie.” Jim was a huge part of Bent Creek’s success and high standards for our golf course. He always had a witty remark to share and a twinkle in his eye. You are in my thoughts and prayers, and I know loss at this time of year is especially difficult. Know that you will see dear Jim again–have faith and gather strength in that knowledge.–Jill Brown

December 17, 2023

I will always remember Jim’s friendship. I really appreciate his skill in keeping the greens at Bent Creek the best in the region. 
Eric Matthew Katch

December 17, 2023

To the Loke Family, Please accept my condolences … I was on a ice hockey team Jiim coached and learned much about hockey, life and colorful vocabulary from Jim😊 . I count myself lucky. I understand there will be a celebration in April. I will be honored to attend if so. Jim touched a lot of people and I for one am all the better for it. Best to you all.
Kelly Rice

December 15, 2023

Jim will be sorely missed. I’ll always cherish the time he spent mentoring me, our vigorous and intense turfgrass discussions, rooming together at GIS, and consultations in Boise. A great friend, a great mentor….
Adam Bagwell

December 15, 2023

Very sorry to hear of such great loss. Sending over my prayers. You’ll get through this. We got your back. 
-Raymond