James Prok Obituary

James Robert Prok, age 63, of North Ridgeville, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at St. John Medical Center in Westlake.
He was born in Berea and had spent his childhood in Berea and Columbia Station before moving to North Ridgeville in 1996.
James was enthusiastic to teach life skills to not only his daughters, but to anyone who was open to his knowledge. Well over 16 years ago, he used his craftmanship to provide multiple homes for the family's cat to enjoy outside. Over the past 10 years, a little Yorkie named Elliot stole his heart and 8 years ago he rescued a 2 day old abandoned kitten and made Phoenix a part of the family.
He was an avid golf enthusiast that slowly dwindled through the course of time, a fisherman beginning as a young boy and carrying the tradition with his girls. Overtime flight simulation became a favorite hobby. Jim's true life's passion was cooking. No one ever left a party hungry and everyone understood "Prok Potatoes".
Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Melissa (nee Kazy), daughters Rachel (Savion) Everlight of North Ridgeville, Alexandra Prok of North Ridgeville, granddaughter, Symerah French, his father, Robert Prok of Columbia Station and sister, Ruth (David) Stankiewicz of Columbia Station, several nieces, nephews and many friends, including his best friend of over 50 years, Sean O'Connor.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Evonne Prok (nee Eche).
A Celebration of Life will be announced.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Friendship APL at www.friendshipapl.org