Harry James Warner Jr

Harry James Warner Jr. of Orwell, Ohio passed away peacefully at Bella Hospice with his family at his side on Tuesday, April 17, 2018.

Mr. Warner was born August 26th, 1930 in Titusville, Pennsylvania to Harry J. Warner Sr., and Beatrice (Hollabough) Warner.

Mr. Warner grew up during the “Great Depression” in Titusville Pennsylvania, and while still in childhood, was confined to a TB quarantine asylum for two years and was subsequently included in one of the first trial groups of Americans to receive the new experimental miracle drug “Penicillin” prior to World War II. 

He graduated from Titusville, High School in Titusville, PA., and played football for the Titusville Rockets from his freshmen through senior year.

After high school, Mr. Warner served in the United States Army Air Corps (Transitioning to the “United States Air Force”). During the Korean War, he was assigned to a B-29 Super Fortress bomber wing home based in Fairbanks, Alaska with the newly established Strategic Air Command (SAC). During subsequent Cold War operations, Mr. Warner was involved in both maintenance activities on the flight-line, and as a participant on B-29 flight crews conducting reconnaissance missions over the artic circle.

Upon completion of military service, Mr. Warner went to work for General Electric in Euclid, Ohio while simultaneously continuing his education at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. After working at General Electric for many years, Mr. Warner accepted a position in 1966 at the newly constructed General Motors plant in Lordstown, Ohio. He retired in 1992.

In civilian life, Mr. Warner continued his love of aviation by attaining his commercial hot air balloon pilots license. Mr. Warner, and his beloved hot air balloon “Zepher” were a frequent sight in the skies over Ashtabula, Geauga, and Trumbull counties for many years. Additionally, he flew in competition throughout the United States. His many adventures included “touch and go” flights skimming the surface of lakes and reservoirs, and flights at altitudes approaching 10,000 feet.  He also flew powered gliders up into his early 70’s with his Mexican friend and fellow aviation enthusiast in southwest Mexico. Mr. Warner also loved fishing for largemouth bass, reading science fiction, gardening, and most of all, spending time with his many grandchildren.

Mr. Warner was preceded in death by brothers Keith Warner, and Dr. Bruce Warner. Daughter Holly Marie Warner. Granddaughter Allison Marie Warner (Daughter of Harry “Jim” and Miriam Warner), and Grandson Thomas Warner Brandeberry (Son of Heather Sue and Todd Brandeberry).

Mr. Warner is survived by his wife Marylou Warner of Orwell, Ohio. Brother Duane Warner (Wife Shirly) of Washington State. Sister Linda Warner of Titusville PA, and Uncle Joseph Hollabough (Wife Betty) of Titusville, PA. Nine of his children: Sons: Harry “Jim” Warner III (wife Miriam), Clayton Thomas Warner, Michael J. McArdle, and Bruce Brian Warner. Daughters:  Beatrice Faye Warner (husband Steve), Kathy P. Thomas, Heather Sue Brandeberry, Margaret M. Sackle, and Dr. Faith R. Warner (Husband Dr. Jesus Salas Elorza). Nineteen grandchildren: Falisha Simon (Husband David), Aaron Thomas (Wife Carrie), Alicia Gaynor (Husband Theodore), Nelson Morris, Vicky Phillips, Melissa Sackle, Todd Thomas (Wife Crystal), Gary Sackle, Justin Phillips, Captain Phillips, Amy Loveland, Kimberly Warner Mogul (Husband Jameson), Michael J. McArdle Jr., Chelsa McArdle, Corbyn Warner, Emily Warner, Carsyn Warner, Rodricko Salas, Mickel Salas – and eleven great grandchildren.

At Mr. Warner’s request, donations can be made in his honor to the “Ronald McDonald House”, or the charity of your choice. Memorial service to be determined.

Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S Silvat Inc.  Send condolences to Harry’s family by visiting: www.cremateohio.com.

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