James C. Roberts

James C. Roberts

The family of James C. Roberts "Jim" of Toledo, OH, is saddened to announce his passing on December 10, 2024, at the age of 95 years. He is survived by his loving wife of 13 years, Nancie Entenmann. Prior to Nancie, Jim was married to Carol Roberts for 58 years, with the children of Jim Jr. (Cindy) Roberts, Mary Roberts, Fred (Elizabeth) Roberts, Tom (Buddy) Roberts, Chris (Joie) Roberts, and Doug Roberts; numerous grandchildren, and a few great-grandchildren. Jim was also close to Nancie's children, Dirk and Becky, and their families, as they spent much time together at holidays and special occasions.

After growing up in Hudson, OH, with his now deceased sister, Sally, and attending Western Reserve Academy, Jim Roberts moved on to Ohio Wesleyan University, before earning his MD from the Ohio State University. His friendship with Carol Roberts began in grade school in Akron, where both of their fathers worked for Firestone Rubber Co. Their romance would blossom after Jim gave Carol his 8th grade pin, and they would celebrate 58 years of marriage on September 6, 2010. Carol married Jim while he was at the Ohio State University School of Medicine, and after internship and residency, she and young Jim Jr. accompanied him to post-WWII Paris, where he was a Captain in the U.S. Army. The family settled in Toledo in 1960, where Dr. Roberts began his pediatric practice with Dr. Ralph Zucker, and continued practicing with lifelong friend Dr. Russell Howard.

In addition to being an accomplished and caring physician at the Toledo Hospital and St. Vincent Medical Center, Jim was a dedicated outdoorsman. He could be found fishing at the Slagle Trout Club in Northern Michigan, or hunting in rural areas around Toledo with his family or his many hunting buddies. Along with his brood of six children, Jim raised some of the finest hunting dogs in Ohio, who were always by his side and 'pointing' the way.

Jim and Carol settled in Ottawa Hills and together raised six children. Their home was always a hive of activity, as they encouraged their children in sports and outdoor adventures. When most families would take trips to nice hotels, the Roberts crew would pile into their station wagon and head to northern Michigan, or a small piece of land in southern Michigan called Day-Off Dream, where they would camp, fish, and explore the wilderness.

Along with his many activities and interests, Jim led the way in the first running boom in America when he took up the activity in the late 1960's. He ran the Glass City Marathon ten times, and in his late 60's turned his attention to triathlons.

In 2010, Carol Jean passed away in Columbus, after enjoying a weekend reunion spent with Jim and friends from his medical school. Soon after, Jim moved to a new home at Swan Creek, where he had many old friends and made many new ones. One of those new friends was Nancie Entenmann, who a few years earlier had lost her husband Dick. While both of them had lost something very special, they were able to find new love, and were married in December of 2011. Together they made their home at Swan Creek, with a large community of friends and a backyard overlooking the creek that is frequently visited by turkey, deer, and a host of songbirds.

We thank the great care of Kind Hearts Hospice in his final weeks. Nancie and Jim's family recognize the compassionate care of the many helpers in his last years to make his life at home very comfortable. For those wishing to continue Jim's legacy, donations may be made to the Greater Toledo Community Foundation, the Ruffed Grouse Society, or Monroe Street Methodist Church. A small service is being held in the near future for immediate family, with plans for a larger celebration of Jim's life in the spring for all to attend.