James E. Trafzer

James "Jim" Edward Trafzer, age 74, passed away in the evening of December 3, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with dementia. He was surrounded with love by his immediate family.
Jim was born September 27, 1951, in Marion, Ohio, to Sam and Phyllis Trafzer, the fifth of seven children. He married the love of his life, Charlotte "Charley" Trafzer, on September 27, 1969. Together, they built a family, a business, and a lifetime of memories that spanned more than five decades.
Jim took over the family excavating business in 1971. He had a talent and a passion for the industry. Under his direction, the company grew in size and scope. Trafzer Excavating served the community for over 50 years, shaping both the landscape of the community and the individuals who worked with him. Jim treated his work crew like family, and he cared for them deeply.
Jim believed in both working hard and playing hard. He labored tirelessly but also knew how to enjoy the fruits of his efforts. His passions included cheering for the Buckeyes and fishing for perch on Lake Erie, often with his dear and cherished friend Gary Crawford. He loved traveling. His adventures took him to Japan and England, many cruises and trips out west (often with Gary to watch the Buckeyes play in bowl games).
For a self-proclaimed "little guy," Jim lived a big life and the things he will be remembered for are too numerous to name. Manning the grill at pool parties, his love for ice cream, his gardens and a brief stint as a chicken and turkey farmer, just to name a few. Of course, no one will forget Jim's love for his dogs, often sharing his Oreo's and car rides with them.
Jim will also be remembered for his faith, serving as both deacon and elder, and on multiple church councils. He hosted baptisms in his pool and would pray with anyone who was in need.
Jim is survived by his son Ben (Serena) Trafzer, daughter Sara (the late Michael Blank) Trafzer, and bonus son Conan (Kristen) Lane. He was the proud grandfather of Garrett (Paige) Trafzer, Dillon Trafzer, and Carson Trafzer, and the great-grandfather of Emma and Abigail Trafzer. He also leaves behind his six sisters: Judy (Roger) Detwiler, Joanne (the late Brad Smith) Smith, Jerri (Richard) New, Jackie (Dennis) Caillouette, Janice (Bill) Smith, and Jennifer Stinson.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Charley and his parents, Sam and Phyllis.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 10, 2025 from 4 – 7 PM at Snyder Funeral Home, Denzer Chapel, 360 E. Center St. Marion, Ohio. The funeral will be Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 1 PM at the Snyder Funeral Home with Pastor Ed Goodwin officiating. Burial will follow at Claridon Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the memory care unit at Marion Rehabilitation and Tranquility Hospice for their dedicated care of Jim.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim's honor to Tranquility Hospice or The Salvation Army in care of the Snyder Funeral Home.
The Snyder Funeral Home is honored to be helping the family during this difficult time. On line condolences may be expressed to the family at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com