James Richard Kettering, of Fairmont, passed away Monday (Nov. 7, 2006) at his home.
He was born June 17, 1916, in Clarksburg, the son of Gordie Elsie Martz Kettering and Harry Earl Kettering. In 1939, he married Elizabeth Ann Hornor Kettering.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Ann Kettering Covington and her husband Charles of Columbia, Mo.; and his son James Richard Kettering, Jr. and his wife Rebecca of Fairmont. He had seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, all of whom survive. His sister Joan Kettering Bethel of Carmel, California also survives.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, William Kettering.
His grandchildren are: Elizabeth Callahan, Paul Waddell and his wife Megan, Allison Scott and her husband Chris, Matthew Kettering and his wife Adrian, John Kettering and his wife Meghan, Paul Kettering and Benjamin Kettering
In 1939, Jim Kettering graduated from Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio. where he was the president of the student body. He was owner and president of Kettering Baking Co. He retired from the United States Naval Reserves as a commander after 21 years of service. He was an elder of the First Presbyterian Church in Fairmont, a long time member of the board of directors of the First National Bank in Fairmont and a long time member of B.P.O. Elks. He very much enjoyed his friends, his golf, playing cards, music and reading.
There will be a memorial service at the First Presbyterian Church in Fairmont on Friday, at 12:30 p.m. with the Rev. Gene Lassiter officiating. There will be a reception following the service in the church social room.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Fairmont. The Ford Funeral Home, R.C. Jones Chapel, 1410 Country Club Road, Fairmont is in charge of all arrangements.
