James Erwin Meyer

James Erwin Meyer,83 of Lakeland, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 27,2023 at home. He was born June 1,1939 in Torrington, CT. and lived there until he moved to Florida in 2019. Jim was the son of the late Vincent B. Meyer and Elizabeth (Doty) Meyer.
He graduated from Torrington high School in 1958. Jim earned his certificate of apprenticeship from the State of Connecticut Labor Department on January 25,1971. He earned his journeyman's card as a tool maker working at Jamesons Manufacturing and Henry Barbers Manufacturing Company. In 1972 Jim earned his gunsmithing license at the Colorado School of Trades. When he returned to Connecticut he was employed at New Departure, General Motors in Bristol, Connecticut. He also opened his own gunsmithing business, Connecticut Carving.
In 1964 Jim married the love of his life and best friend Judy in Chicago, Illinois. They were married for 58 years and created a wonderful family. They we're blessed with 2 daughters, 5 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson.
Jim enjoyed parachute jumping, bench rest shooting, a difficult crossword puzzle, the Dallas Cowboys, and Clemson Football and Basketball, and spending time with his family and friends. You could usually find him on a stool at Scarpelli's, Angie's, or A J's drinking coffee and chatting with someone. He was an active member of St. Thomas of Villanova Church in Goshen, CT. and St. Anthony Catholic Church in Lakeland, FL. Jim was a faithful Catholic who loved his God, served on many committees in the parishes including the Charismatic Renewal. He had a great devotion to the blessed Mother saying a rosary every day.
Jim is survived by his wife Mary Judith (Judy Manfredi) Meyer, daughters Karlyn (Mike) Strom, and Eileen Hammond, grandchildren Joseph Petano, Francesca Strom, Sarah Petano, Martina Strom, and Olivia Hammond, great-grandson Vincent Petano, and son-in-law Mark Petano. Jim also leaves his brother Donald Meyer and his wife, Betty, brother-in-law Tom (Michelle) Manfredi, Michael (Holly) Manfredi and sister-in-law Cathy (Mario) Penna, as well as many special nephews and nieces. The family wishes to thank good Shepherd Hospice for the compassionate care he received. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Good Shepherd Hospice, 3470Lakeland Hills Blvd., Florida 33805.   or the Wounded Warrior Project.4899 Belfort Road. Suite 300.Jacksonville, Florida 32256.,   

Funeral Services will be held Saturday April 29th at 11 AM at Saint Thomas Villanova Church in Goshen, with burial following at Saint Thomas Cemetery.  online memorials www.phalenfuneral.com

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