James L. Frisch

It is with heavy hearts that his family announces the passing of James L. Frisch, who departed on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the age of 81. He fought hard to stay with his family and friends who were with him at home until the very end.

A longtime resident and small business owner in Delaware, Ohio, Jim was happiest outdoors, sharing his passions for hunting, fishing, and traveling. Born in Davenport, Iowa, on September 5, 1943, Jim developed a strong work ethic from a young age, working alongside his uncle on Frisch's Hog Farm in Wolcott, Iowa. It was here that he developed an appreciation for hard work, the importance of family, and the desire to continue his education. He attended West High School, where he excelled in athletics, especially basketball. He attended the University of Dubuque, meeting the love of his life, a shy violinist from Chicago. He and Clara (nee Smith) were married months after his graduation in 1965. Employed by Shell Oil Corporation for over 20 years, Jim moved his family to Ohio in 1973. In 1985, he became the owner of Karl and 161 Shell, and in 2001, built and opened Delaware Marathon, which Frisch Enterprises Inc. owned until April 2023. He was also a long-time member of the Delaware Rotary Club.

Jim was an exceptional and fascinating man. His vast knowledge and generosity in sharing what he knew made him a friend to everyone he met. He knew no strangers. Whether it be fishing in Ogoki, Ontario, or hunting in Wyoming, Jim thrived by sharing his passion with others, teaching them the importance of respecting nature and cherishing its beauty. Many will remember his legendary fishing trips to Canada, weekends with friends in Marblehead, or simply a chat on his front porch. Jim had many stories to share and always carried the photos to back them up. These are the things that will be missed most.

Beyond his outdoor pursuits, Jim was a loving husband, a caring father, a beloved Papoo, a loyal friend, a respected businessman, and a talented teller of tales. He touched the lives of many with his generosity, sense of humor, and unending wisdom.

Jim is survived by Clara, his wife of 60 years; children, Stephanie, Jim, and daughter-in-law, Laura (all of Delaware); two grandsons, of whom he was most proud, Brian (Minneapolis, Minnesota) and Blake (Delaware, Ohio); sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Wayne Marker (Bettendorf, Iowa); sister-in-law, Philis Beilfuss (Las Vegas, Nevada), as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. His beloved Labrador, Zeeva, and countless dear friends will also carry on his legacy. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Helen Frisch, and his in-laws, Philip and Mildred Smith.

Because it will take time to prepare an event worthy of his character, a celebration of Jim's life will be held at a future date this summer. Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim's memory to the Laura Frisch Thrive for Life Scholarship, c/o the Delaware County Foundation (110 Riverbend Avenue-Suite 101, Powell, OH 43065 or https://delawarecf.org/donate-donation-page/).

Jim is already deeply missed, but the memories of his adventures and the legacy of his deep love for family, friends, and the wild will continue to inspire us. May he find eternal peace in the great outdoors.

Online condolences can be made at www.robinsonfuneralhomeinc.com. Robinson Funeral Home has assisted the family with funeral arrangements.