James N. Clasby

James Norman Clasby, aged 75, passed away in his sleep June 25th at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, New York after battling multiple health problems. James was born on April 12th, 1950 in Munich, Germany to US Airforce officer Paul Clasby and German native Maria Clasby née Bogner. James grew up as a decorated Boy Scout of America and shared his love of camping and nature with his four children by camping as much as possible. 

The Clasby Family eventually settled down in the Ithaca area and James graduated from Newfield High School in 1968. The love and commitment to community he had as a Boy Scout carried over to his work as a Deputy Sheriff for Tompkins County, and even beyond his retirement in May of 1999. James regularly donated to children’s hospitals, veteran programs, and the SPCA. He was known to make a big “BOOM” not just by being a part of a local fireworks group in the 90’s and early 2000’s, but through his big personality. He loved to entertain whether it was through fireworks, grilling, or telling all sorts of stories and jokes, usually happening on the same night, at get togethers and family gatherings. He was truly a Jack of all trades, with his knowledge of cars, science, history, and so many more topics.

James is predeceased by his father Paul Clasby, his mother Maria Clasby, his aunt Ingrid Koestler, and his uncle Helmut Koestler. James is survived by his four children Brian Clasby, Gregory Clasby, Krista Damen née Clasby, and Betsy Clasby; his grandson Helmut José Porras Clasby, his Sister Elizabeth Carr née Clasby, his nephew Derek Carr, and cousin Richard Koestler. 

The family plans to do a Graveside Ceremony at the Calvary Cemetery on July 10th at 11am. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation in James’s memory to the Tompkins County SPCA, or to the Cayuga Nature Center. Bangs Funeral Home is assisting the family with James’s final arrangements.