James Louis Metzger

Jim Louis Metzger, beloved husband, father, grandfather and proud veteran died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 93 in Lancaster, Ohio, on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. His is the story of a boy who was born in a farmhouse on Green Branch Road in Perry County, Ohio. He was one of 10 children born to Francis Metzger and Loretta (Hammond) Metzger. Jim graduated from Ohio University then married Shirley (Berry) Metzger. They had four sons Jeff, Craig, Curt, and John. Jim lived much of his life in a house that he proudly had built on Calgary Court in Columbus, Ohio. While there he raised his sons, married his wife of 46 years, Verdale (Simpson) Metzger, and welcomed her four children, Teresa, Cathy, Bob, and Joe to the family. Theirs was a special love affair that continues to this day. Jim was a proud veteran. He served two tours of active duty in France and Korea. He served full-time in the Air National guard at Rickenbacker Air Force Base for 30 years, rising to the rank of Lt. Colonel. He retired as the head Financial Officer at the base. Jim was a devoted family man who enjoyed hosting family gatherings. He loved cars, especially Ford Mustangs, and there are many funny stories about his work on cars. He did his best to play golf often saying, “oh God!” after (sometimes before) hitting a shot. His sons and grandsons especially enjoyed the annual golf trips to Waynesville, NC including dinners at the Sagebrush and copies of bad puns that he shared. Jim will be sorely missed by his wife Verdale, sons (and spouses) Jeff (Peggy), Craig (Beth), Curt (Cherise), and John (Janene), stepchildren Teresa (Rob), Cathy (Ted), Bob (Sandy), and Joe (Laura) along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Francis. The family would especially like to thank Teresa Lemaster for her nursing care during Jim’s final days. It was a great comfort to all of us. Friends may call from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the Bope-Thomas Funeral Home in Somerset, Ohio. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 16, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Andre’ Joseph LaCasse, O.P. as celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery with military honors being provided by the Somerset American Legion Leo Ryan Post 58. Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project (https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org).

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