Dr. James Christian Durig Sr. died on Saturday September 1, 2018 at his home surrounded by family.

He was born January 14, 1943 a son of the late Robert and Juanita (Furbee) Durig in Wheeling, WV.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran having served six years in the reserves and two years active duty. He served aboard the Destroyer William M. Wood and was part of the blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

He was president of the West Virginia Chapter of the American College of Surgeons and president of the medical-dental staff at Wheeling Hospital. He had been the team physician for the St. Clairsville High School football team for many years.

James loved to travel and ski. He was an avid reader and loved crossword puzzles. He also loved to spend time with his children and granddaughter.

James was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew Jeffery Smith. He is survived by his loving wife of fifty years Gloria (Jafrate) Durig whom he married on August 17, 1968.

In addition he is survived by his children, Heidi (Dr. Fritz) Heiby of Zanesville, Ohio and James Durig Jr. of Cincinnati, Ohio as well as a brother, Robert (Mariann) Durig Jr. of WI and a sister-in-law, JoAnn Smith of Wheeling, WV; a granddaughter Anna Heiby, an Aunt Dorothy Wnek of Glen Dale, WV and many niece, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends will be received at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Clairsville, Ohio on Wednesday September 5, 2018 from 10 until time of funeral liturgy with Mass at 11 am. Fr. Thomas Chillog will act as celebrant.

Burial will be held in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Wheeling, WV at the convenience of the family.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to Amedisys Hospice for their outstanding care as well as the ladies from I.C. Care who were like family.

Arrangements by the Beck-Altmeyer Funeral Homes & Crematory 204 W. Main St. St. Clairsville, Ohio 43950.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association by going to “TMCFunding.com”.

Share your thoughts and memories of James with the family at www.beckaltmeyer.com