Jim Case

James George Case, 55, died unexpectedly from heart complications on March 14, 2020 at the Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, NY.  He was born in Mt. Clemens, MI on May 22, 1964 the firstborn son of the late Kathleen Higgins Case and James Edward Case. He graduated Lakeview High School in St. Clair Shores, MI in 1982. He graduated from Central Michigan University with his undergraduate degree and earned his master’s degree from Western Michigan University. He married his college sweetheart, Ladeen Smarch Case on July 24, 1987.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 32 years Ladeen, Daughter Devin Case, Sons Carson Case and Collin Case and his Siblings Ann Goolsby (Ron), Chris Case (Kamilah), Andy Case (Theresa). He is also survived by his father-in-law Alvin Smarch; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Joyce and Ray Felice; nieces and nephews, Ryan Felice, Jenna Felice (Jenna Mamola), Richard Kirby, Brett Pirrone, Catherine Pirrone, Claire Goolsby, Jennifer Case, Kenny Goolsby, Rebecca Case and one great niece Jordan Felice-Mamola. In addition to his parents Jim was also predeceased by his sister-in-law, Christi Pirrone.

He was a loving and loyal husband, father to his three kids and loved his dogs Madison, Rosie and Gabby. He also had an amazing second family with the Big Red Staff, Coaches, Players and their Families. Jim Worked for Cornell University and loved being part of the Big Red family for over 32 years. Jim was the Associate Head Athletic Trainer, he worked closely with the lacrosse teams, football teams, girls swimming and covered many sports helping thousands of student athletes throughout his career. He was the head trainer for Summit Lacrosse which was located across multiple locations although he spent many summers in Lake Placid, NY. He was the athletic trainer for the US Lacrosse National teams for the World Lacrosse Games in 1994 and 1998 and had served as an intern with the Detroit Lions. He also refereed basketball through IAABO.

When Jim and Ladeen moved to Ithaca in 1988, he was the only Detroit Lions and Tigers fan in Tompkins County. His number one priority was always his family. He dreamed big and loved to shower his wife and kids with gifts as his heart was always in the right place. He was a sports enthusiast. He always had the newest technology and loved his gadgets. He enjoyed wood working and starting projects no matter how long they took. Jim handmade jersey frames for every Senior Cornell Lacrosse player for many years.

A man that was full of life and filled the room with his sense of humor, he was a friend to all that met him. His wise cracks are still being repeated today and no one was immune to his quick wit.  Jim was the go-to guy for so many. He was constantly helping and consulting many family & friends with their injuries and health. He was a mentor to many and was known as a great friend who took the time to listen. He always put everyone’s interest ahead of his own. You could always count on Jim to meet you for “just one”.

He lived the Cornell lacrosse motto, “Leave every place better than you found it and well done is better than well said” #WD>WS #LGR

Jim’s family has been grateful for the love and support everyone has shown. The kind words have meant so much. Unfortunately, due to the current situation the family will have a private service this week but plans to have a Celebration of Life on his birthday May 22, 2020 and further details will be provided as the date gets closer.

In lieu of flowers, you can help the Case Family by donating to the Jim Case Memorial Family Fund either electronically  via Venmo Account: @JimCase-MemorialFamilyFund or by mail to Tompkins Trust Co., Jim Case Memorial Fund, c/o Thomas Cannon, PO Box 460, Ithaca, NY 14851. Checks may be made payable to Jim Case Memorial Family Fund.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jim Case, please visit our floral store.