James Frank Morawski

James Frank Morawski

James Frank Morawski passed away peacefully at home on December 24, 2025, at the age of 73.

Jim was born on May 22, 1952, at St. Vincent's Hospital in Toledo, Ohio. His father, Joe, proudly announced his birth weight of 11 pounds, 10 ounces, a story that remained part of family lore throughout Jim's life. He grew up in South Toledo, where he was blessed with many close friendships with neighbors who remained great friends throughout his entire life.

He attended St. James Elementary School and Libbey High School. Jim was known for his strong work ethic and dedication, beginning his career at Advance Cleaning while still in high school. He went on to work as a mechanic at Star Vending for 12 years, a salesman at Cain's Potato Chips for 12 years, and later as a purchasing manager at Edco Tool & Die, where he worked for 19 years. He retired at the age of 65 after being diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive and incurable lung disease. Jim never smoked, and the cause of his illness was unknown.

Jim met his wife, Kathy Morawski-Dreher, in 2010, and they were married in May 2015. Together they shared a loving partnership and deep commitment to family.

Jim liked to describe himself as a "Jack of all Trades, Master of None," but his wife, children, friends, and family know that he was truly the Master of Giving. You could always count on Jim to be there when you needed him. The hardest part of his terminal illness was when he was no longer able to help others in the way he wanted. He had an impeccable sense of humor and was a sensitive and caring man whose kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

In keeping with his lifelong desire to help others, Jim donated his body to science. He wanted to continue giving even after his death, in hopes of educating medical professionals and contributing to research that may one day lead to better treatments or a cure for others facing similar illnesses.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Morawski; his children, Deanna Zaciek, Kyle Morawski, and Wendy Morawski; his son-in-law, Brad Zaciek; his daughter-in-law, Michelle Morawski; his grandchildren, Ty, Jack, Lillian, Sidney, Elliot, and Anna; his brother, Joseph Morawski; and his sister, Pam Suwinski. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Hillary Moore, Hannah Mouch, and Hope Vukcevich; and his stepgrandchildren, Kendyl, Parker, Ellie, and Samuel.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Bonnie Morawski, who passed away at the young age of 43; his father, Joe Morawski; and his sister, Judy Stockman; and his grandparents, Alfred and Grace Burkhardt.

Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His generosity, humor, and unwavering willingness to help others will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Service arrangements will be announced by the family.