James C Kirwen

James C. Kirwen, age 99, of Risingsun, Ohio passed away Monday, September 1, 2025, at his home. He was born on November 11, 1925, in Gibsonburg, Ohio to the late Claude J. & Vella M. (Ottney) Kirwen. James married Suzanne P. Scherf on June 9, 1947, at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Fremont.
Surviving James are his loving wife of 78 years, Suzanne; children, Timothy (Linda) Kirwen of Findlay, Nan (Rick) Camarata of Gibsonburg, Scott (Bethany) Kirwen of Sturgeon Bay, WI, Kathleen (Greg) Lowery of Fostoria; brother, Haldon R. Kirwen of Texas; grandchildren, Kevin, Keri, Jeremy, Joshua, Nicolas, Kyle, Christopher, Justin, Suzanne, Makayla, Porter; 20 great-grandchildren; and 9 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Terry Kirwen; infant sister, Marilyn Kirwen; and sister, Jean E. Schwartz.
James was a 1943 graduate of St. Joseph Central Catholic High School in Fremont and then served his Country proudly in the United States Navy during WWII where he was a Radioman 2nd Class. After returning home, he went back to work for his dad at his family-owned grocery store, eventually becoming owner of Kirwen's Market in Risingsun for many years. He continued working in the grocery business as a meatcutter until he retired. James was a lifelong member of the Fremont VFW, a member of the Fostoria American Legion Post #73, and a member of St. Wendelin Catholic Church. Among many hobbies over the years, James enjoyed Auctioneering, had a passion for woodworking, and had a knack for fixing and playing organs at local churches. His greatest love in life though, was spending time with his family.
All services will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to Barndt Funeral Home in Wayne, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Flag City Honor Flight. Online condolences can be sent to James' family at www.barndtfuneralhome.org.