James Charles Vasbinder

James Charles Vasbinder of New Philadelphia, OH passed away on Friday, July 21st, 2023 at the age of 83. Born on April 23rd, 1940 to Margaret Dillon and Nelson Vasbinder, Jim was a proud graduate of New Philadelphia High School Class of 1958, and he continued to root against Dover annually for his entire life. Jim attended the US Naval Aviation Prep School in Norman, OK and served as part of Patrol Squadron 23, flying in a P2V-7 Neptune maritime patrol aircraft serving in many countries.

Known online and to friends as BuckJim, Jim was a diehard fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes college football team. Jim was an early adopter of technology and the Internet, and bullshitted with friends and strangers for over 20 years on message boards, his personal blog, and to anyone who would listen about the current happenings of the NCAA football world. Even while living in the south, he never missed a game and belonged to The Ohio State University Alumni Club of New Orleans, known as the “Cajun Buckeyes.”

Jim is survived by his daughter Kelli Gilland of New Philadelphia, his two granddaughters, Sami (Michael) Messerle of New Orleans, LA and Jessica (Russell) Bayham of Baton Rouge, LA. Two great grandchildren, Winifred and Oliver, to whom he gave his dearest goodbyes. His nephew Bert Vasbinder of New Orleans, LA. And his ex-wife and longtime friend, whom he just barely continued to tolerate after all this time, Jeanne Gelinas of Naples, FL, and his beloved dog and companion, Charlie.

Preceded in death by his parents, brother Bill Vasbinder, and longtime companion, Judith Weller of Jefferson, LA whom he loved deeply and was a selfless caretaker of following complications of ALS until her death in 2003.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at the New Philadelphia VFW, where Jim was a lifetime member, on August 6th, 2023 from 1-4PM as we remember Jim in his favorite place.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jim’s honor to the Tuscarawas County Humane Society or the Community Hospice Truman House of New Philadelphia.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/cleveland-cremation for the Vasbinder family.