YOUNGSTOWN - James R. Hlinka, 59, of the city's west side, passed away Monday evening, April 4, 2016, at his home following a courageous battle with colon cancer.

James was born July 28, 1956, in Youngstown, a son of Richard and Mary Lou Haggerty Hlinka, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was a 1975 graduate of Chaney High School and attended Youngstown State University. He owned and operated Jim's Lawn Care, now known as Hlinka Lawn Care and operated by his sons. Previously, Jim worked at Astro Shapes, and he also owned pet shops.

Mr. Hlinka was a social member of Catholic War Veterans, John J. Buckley Post on Steel Street, and was a member of the Petri Club. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting. Jim was also a football fan and a big fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Jim leaves his wife of 34 years, Marlene Millosin Hlinka, whom he married Feb. 13, 1982; three sons, James R. Hlinka Jr. of Austintown, Christopher J. Hlinka of Campbell, and Richard S. Hlinka of Youngstown; his parents, Richard and Mary Lou of Youngstown; two brothers, David Hlinka of Youngstown and Richard (Anna) Hlinka of Canfield; two sisters, Debbie (Andy) Pasquale of Youngstown and Michelle (Bob) Risbeck of Salem; two nieces, Kaitlyn and Marisa; and a nephew, Michael.

Family and friends may call (in casual attire at Jim's request) from 8 to 9:15 a.m., Saturday, April 9, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown. Funeral services will begin at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home, and continue with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10 a.m. at Our Lady Sorrows Parish, Holy Name of Jesus Church, 613 N. Lakeview Ave., Youngstown.

Committal services will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

In lieu of flowers , memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society to fight colon cancer, 525 N Broad St, Canfield, OH 44406; or donations may be made through cancer.org

Jim's family offers special thanks to Dr. Kessler and Dr. Francis, the nurses at St. Elizabeth Health Care Center's Infusion Center, and especially to Hospice of the Valley, for the kindness shown and care given to Mr. Hlinka and his family.