James F. Engle's Obituary
James F. Engle, 82, of Huron, Ohio, passed away peacefully after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of love, quiet strength, and steady devotion to family and community.
Born and raised in Atwater, Ohio, James carried the values of his hometown throughout his life. He attended Ohio University, where he met the love of his life, Karen McGuire. They married and spent almost 60 wonderful years together, raising a family in Lorain, OH that was the pride and joy of his life.
James served his country with honor in the United States Air Force, stationed in Berlin, Germany, for four years. His time in the service shaped his worldview and deepened his appreciation for his country and family.
After his military service, James dedicated his life to education, teaching grade school in Lorain for over 30 years. He was a calm, patient, and thoughtful teacher who left a lasting impression on generations of students.
A lifelong learner himself, James was an avid reader and crossword puzzle enthusiast. In addition to these quiet pastimes, he found great joy and creative expression in quilting, becoming a skilled and passionate quilter whose work reflected his care and precision.
James is survived by his beloved wife Karen; his children James F (Marta nee Hohman), Michael (Tammy nee Kennedy), Thomas (Leslie nee Temple), and Susann Davis (Matt); and his eight grandchildren Lauren, Nathan, Collin, Trenton, Landyn, Jerett, Savannah, and Reagan, each of whom brought him immeasurable pride and happiness. He is also survived by his sister Cheri Benedik and her husband Jer, and step brother Bill Saunders, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother Patricia Saunders, father James F. Engle, stepfather Grant Saunders, brother Thomas Engle, sister Teri Hilton, and nephews Benjamin Benedik and Matthew Engle.
James had a dry wit and a sharp sense of humor that could lighten any moment. He was a grounding presence in an often-chaotic world - a man of quiet strength, deep thought, and enduring love. He cherished family get-togethers and vacations, finding joy in the simple, shared moments that became lasting memories.
Friends and family may call on Friday from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst, OH. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 31st. at the funeral center. Inurnment will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Doctors without Borders, Disabled American Veterans or Folds of Honor in James's memory - a fitting tribute to a man who believed deeply in service, the power of knowledge and the importance of community.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were lucky enough to know him.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dovinreberjones.com
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