James Patrick "Jim" Stein

1942 - 2025

James (Jim) Patrick Stein, age 82, of Celina, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Nov. 20, 2025, at his residence.
He was born on Dec. 13, 1942, in Battle Creek, Michigan, to the late Sylvester and Hazel (Pearson) Stein.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Mary (Decker) Stein, whom he married on Dec. 26, 1964. He is also survived by his children: Laurie Stein; Jeff (Mary) Stein; and Doug (Lisa) Stein, all of Celina; eight grandchildren: Kaytie (Tim) Kelley, Kelsey (Erik) Rutschilling, Kyle Stein, Becca Stein, Zach Stein, Kristi Stein, Clay Stein, and Trisha Stein; and one great-grandchild, Kamy Regedanz.
He graduated from Fort Recovery High School in 1961 and proudly served in the Army National Guard of Ohio, receiving an Honorable Discharge for his service from 1964 to 1970.
James built a long and respected career as an Operating Engineer with Peterson Construction in Wapakoneta, Ohio, where he worked for 40 years. During the last 24 years of his career, he specialized in operating 20-, 40-, and 60-ton cranes, earning the trust of his colleagues through his skill, dedication, and strong work ethic.
A dedicated member of the Celina community, James was honored as WCSM Radio's Person of the Year in 2008, a recognition that reflected his lifelong commitment to helping others. He loved spending time with his family and especially enjoyed supporting his children and grandchildren at their many sporting events throughout the years. He also found joy in mowing lawns, shoveling snow, and helping neighbors by bringing up their garbage containers after trash pick-up. James was well known for carrying dog biscuits in his pockets for the neighborhood dogs, who eagerly awaited his daily walks. Friendly and welcoming to all, he formed lasting connections easily and leaves behind a legacy of kindness. He will be deeply missed by his family and by all who were blessed to know him.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina, with Doug Stein, his son, officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Burial will follow at Mercer Memory Gardens in Celina.
The Stein family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Cisco Funeral Homes in Celina and St. Marys for their compassion and care during this difficult time. They also wish to offer special thanks to Mercy Health – Hospice in Lima and the Celina Cancer Center for the exceptional support and devoted care they provided to Jim and his family. In addition, the family is deeply grateful to the doctors, friends, and extended family members whose prayers, support, and kindness brought comfort throughout Jim's journey.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Call Ministries, 420 N. Brandon Ave., Celina, Ohio 45822.