James K. Gold

James Kay “Jim” Gold, age 72, of New Philadelphia, passed away peacefully in the arms of his wife and with his sister-in-law, niece, and nephew by his side on September 13, 2025, at the Sanctuary of Wadsworth. Jim was diagnosed five years ago with frontotemporal dementia, the same condition that actor Bruce Willis is currently facing.

Born in Canton, Ohio, on January 8, 1953, Jim was the son of Joyce Marie (Helmic) Gold and the late James “Jim” Gold. He proudly served in the United States Navy and later earned an associate degree.

On June 14, 1993, Jim married the former Nikki Lee Scalambrino. She fondly referred to him as “Snuggy Bear”.

Jim dedicated six years of his life working as a probation officer and later spent seven years as a press operator with The Times-Reporter newspaper. He was also a proud member of the United Schutzhund Club of America, reflecting his passion for canine training, discipline and genetics.

Jim had a lifelong passion for bodybuilding and earned the title of “Mr. Tuscarawas County.” He also played semi-professional football for the Tuscarawas County Vikings, where he made a name for himself by setting national records for blocked field goals—ranking 4th in the nation in 1975 and 3rd in 1974. His impressive strength also played a key role in helping his team win the Tug-O-War championship at Midvale Speedway during the 1980s.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nikki Gold; sons, Anthony (Chasalee) Gold and their children Ty and Raina of Dennison and Aaron Gold and his children, Gage and Haley of Canton; sisters, Kathy Gold of New Philadelphia and Elaine Affolder of Dennison; sister-in-law, Lisa Scalambrino of Dover; nephew, Cory Matlick of Dover; nieces, Tricia (Justin) Bristo of Canton and Angela (Roy) of Bolivar; mother-in-law, Virginia (Carl) Loos of Dover; and father-in-law, Nick Scalambrino of New Philadelphia.

Jim’s wishes for cremation will be honored through Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory in Dover. A service will be held at a later date at Legacy Church in New Philadelphia.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s memory may be directed to the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, 1432 Tall Timber Rd NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.