James Dolatowski

James Dolatowski, 74 of Mentor, Ohio, passed away on January 10, 2025. Jim was born on December 23, 1950 to the late John and Victoria Dolatowski. A 1969 St. Joseph High School graduate, he married Charmaine, née Smith, on September 27, 1974, and raised two sons, Dustin and Ryan.

After working at Clevite and Ford Motor Company, Jim eventually retired from Mayfield Village Service Department after more than 17 years of service.

Jim was a musician, playing the accordion and keyboard in his band, The Good Life, for many years. He was a genuine handyman, an avid Indians/Guardians (love-hate) fan, and a renowned joker and storyteller. He had the ability to connect with anyone under any circumstance. He either knew you or made you a friend within minutes. He was especially adept at connecting with children, which was evident in his strong, loving bond with his three granddaughters, many years of coaching youth sports, and teaching PSR.

Jim was preceded in death by his sister Dorothy Krueger (Richard), and brother Jerome (Jane, deceased/Lillian, deceased). He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Charmaine; sons Dustin (Claire) and Ryan (Michelle); three granddaughters, Mallory, Reagan, and Victoria; sisters Marilyn Cesa (Nick), Patricia Nagy (Ted, deceased), and Carol Lillash (Tom); sister-in-law Mary Kay Hall (Jeff); uncle, great uncle, cousin and friend to many.

A mass to honor Jim will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., at St. John Vianney Church in Mentor, Ohio. Following the service, friends and family can gather to share memories and stories during a brunch at the church's social center. If so moved, memorial contributions in Jim's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (a cause near and dear to his heart).