Obituary of James Cousino

James A. Cousino October 29, 1938 - February 18, 2010 James Alan Cousino was born in Toledo, Ohio on October 29, 1938. He was one of two children born to the union of the late Isiah J. and Thelma (Baird) Cousino. Jim attended Catholic Central High School graduating with the Class of 1960. He attended the University of Dayton for two years before completing the Michigan State University's Agricultural short course where he received the Outstanding Leadership Award in 1960. He married Prudence Cousino on February 4, 1961 at St. Joseph. Jim began his career in farming at the age of 14. He would work for LJ and BL Cousino Hay and Straw until 1968 when he became the President of Erie Farms, Inc. Jim retired from this position in 2001, but continued employment with C. Reau Farms. Like his mother, Jim was extremely patriotic, and had a passion for the American Flag. He served his community proudly in many capacities over the years. He was a volunteer firefighter for the LaSalle and Erie Township Fire Departments for more than eighteen years combined. He served several years on the Planning Commission and also for the CDBG Program in Erie. He was the founder and a charter member of the Erie Liar's Club meeting daily at the Erie Restaurant. Jim was a man of few words, but taught others the value of hard work and led by example. Jime enjoyed American History and being "Pippi". James A. Cousino lifelong Erie resident and a pillar of the Erie Community passed away Thursday, February 18, 2010 at age 71. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by a brother-in-law: John Kronk. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife: "Prudy"; four daughters: Sister Colleen Marie Cousino SND of Toledo, Christy Cousino of Bozeman, MT, Annette (Chris) Hirschfeld of Indianapolis, IN, and Renee Cousino-Feil (Bill Feil) of Phoenix, AZ; a nephew whom he helped raise: Chris Cousino of LaSalle; four grandchildren: Douglas and Thomas Hirschfeld and Eric and Nicole Feil; and a twin sister: Janet Kronk of Morris Plains, NJ. Friends may gather Sunday, February 21, 2010 and Monday from 3:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, Bennett-Erie, 9156 Summit Street (734) 848-5185. He will lie in state from 10:30am until the Mass of the Resurrection at 11:30am, Tuesday, February 23. Procession will follow to St. Joseph Cemetery for burial. For memorial suggestions or to leave online words of inspiration and comfort visit www.merklefuneralservice.com, and then select Life Stories page.