James Olds

James Olds, age 83, of Maumee, passed away Sunday, May 7, 2006 in Heatherdowns Rehabilitaion Center, where he was a resident for 3 years. He was born June 3, 1922 to Bazzel and Ada (Raitz) Olds in Lenk's Hill area of Toledo. James moved with his parents to west Toledo and attended Augsburg Lutheran Church. He sang in the choir and enjoyed helping the younger handicapped members. James was a 1940 graduate of DeVilbiss High School and was the MC at his classes' 50th Anniversary party at the Hilton Hotel in 1990. James was employed with the former Foodtown Stores, as a manager at various locations for more than 20 years, earning him the title of "Mr. Foodtown". While he managed the DeVeaux Village store, James knew every housewife that came in and that is where he met his wife, Jeanann, the love of his life. They both enjoyed dancing to Big Band music and continued to do so until Jim's heart surgery in 1997. Jim also worked for several local food brokers including, LaCross, Inc and Puccetti-Gasser. He was a member of the "Over the Hill" gang and TAGMAR, meeting regularly for lunch. After heart surgery Jim volunteered at St. Luke's Hospital and the Heatherdowns Rehabilitation Center. Being an avid baseball fan, Jim rarely missed a Mud Hen's game. After moving to Maumee he enjoyed walking to and from the ballpark. Jim's other interests included daily feeding of the birds in his backyard, walking in the MetroParks and caring for his lawn. A true extrovert, Jim loved to sing for all the residents at Heatherdowns and he looked forward to attending St. Patrick's Monday services there. Jim was a kind and loving person who will be missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Sarah Mathison. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 38 years, Jeanann (Kibler) Olds; children, Karen (Rolland) Lee; Denise Waxler; Cheri Durdel; William (JaNean) Mathison and Julie Mathison; twin sister, Janice Rehberg; brother, Jack Olds; 8 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

The family will receive guests Wednesday from 12-1:00 p.m. in the Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300). Funeral Services will begin at 1:30 p.m. at Ottawa Hills Memorial Park.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Cherry Street Mission: Beech House or to the charity of the Donor's Choice.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.newcomerfamily.com