James H. Leininger, 83, of Jackson Center passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016 at 7:10 a.m. in Fair Haven Shelby County Home, Sidney.
He was born on May 22, 1932 on his family’s farm just north of Jackson Center, the son of the late Hyatt Eugene and Uma Juanita (Armstrong) Leininger. He is also preceded in death by his brother Edward ‘Lynn’ Leininger.
On March 29, 1953, he married the former Clara Mae Smith, and she survives in Jackson Center along with their four daughters; Denise Ruwe of Liberty Twp., Ohio, Joni Leininger, Dawn (Kevin) Chudyk, and Ann (Scott) Doseck, all of Jackson Center, seven grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
James farmed the family’s land until he turned 55 years old while also working at Holloway Sportswear in Jackson Center. He was a longtime member of the Jackson Center United Methodist Church where he was active on several committees over the years. He loved interacting with people as well as any social events around Jackson Center. He also enjoyed music, participating in several local shows as well as singing in some choirs in Florida. He also liked to golf.
Pastor Rob Ulmer will officiate a funeral service on Monday, February 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Jackson Center United Methodist Church, 202 E. Pike St. Jackson Center, OH 45334. Visitation will be on Sunday, February 21, 2016 from 1 until 4 p.m. at the Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home, 214 W. Pike St. Jackson Center and also one hour prior to the church service on Monday.
Eichholtz Daring & Sanford Funeral Home, Jackson Center assisted the family with arrangements.