James H. Rempe, 81, of Saint Marys, passed away from this life Thursday December 13, 2018, at 7:41 p.m. with his family by his side, at Vancrest of Saint Marys.

He was born December 31,1936 in Shelby County to Harry and Wilhelmina (Klosterman) Rempe. On a snowy January 25, 1958 evening at 7:00 p.m., Jim and Mary Ann (Wessel) were united in a candlelight service at St. Paul's Evangelical and Reformed Church. The Reverend L.W. Stolte performed the double ring ceremony.

Jim is survived by his wife, daughters Deborah of St. Marys; Cindy (JR) Graham of Toledo; son, Jeff (fiancee Shannon) of Lima; and granddaughter Skyler Graham of Ohio University, Athens. Also surviving are a brother, Thomas (Gloria) in South Carolina; and sisters Ruth Rush, Florida; and Linda (Bob) McDermitt of St. Marys.

Preceding Jim were brothers Robert and Paul and sisters Dorothy Delzeith, Marie Hobrock, and Esther Huebner.

Jim was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter's Church, New Bremen. He is a former member of First United Church of Christ, Lima where he served on the consistory. Jim was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Tri-County Coin Club, Eagles 767 and the New Bremen Historic Association.

Jim was a graduate of the class of '55 from New Bremen High School. Ten years after graduation Jim continued his studies enrolling in a one year home studies course from DeVry Technical Institute of Chicago, Illinois. Then he completed three months of weekends at Electronics Computer Programming Institute of Dayton. During this time he was employed at Lewis and Michael Warehouse. After receiving his diploma, he accepted a position in the Data Processing Department at the Metropolitan Bank of Lima. He later retired from the former Scot Lad.

Jim enjoyed NASCAR, auctions, the Ohio State Buckeyes, traveling, woodworking, reading-especially history, and just being outdoors doing jobs at his home. Most of all, his family was his blessing.

The family wishes to extend their appreciation to Vancrest for their love, care and support given to Jim.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the American Cancer Society or St. Paul's United Church of Christ.

Funeral rites will be held 2:30 PM Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at the Miller-Long and Folk Funeral Home, 314 West High Street, St. Marys, the Reverend Doug Williamson, officiant. Burial will follow at Elm Grove Cemetery.

Friends may call from noon until the time of services.