Jim Ewanski

James "Jim" Ewanski, 71, of Fremont, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on September 10, 2016. Jim was a soft-spoken, kind-hearted, artistic man of character and integrity who loved his family. He was born April 7, 1945 in Toledo, Ohio to MaryJane (Szymoroski) and Edward Ewanski. He is preceded in death by both of his parents, and by a daughter and son, Mary and Joseph Ewanski. Jim grew up in the Toledo and Rossford, Ohio areas and graduated from Rossford High School in 1963. While in high school he met the love of his life, Dolores Wojton (Ewanski), and the two married in 1967, and were married for 49 years. Four years later, Jim graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1967 with a bachelor's degree in education. He later received his master's degree in guidance and counseling. He worked for the Fremont City Schools for 32 years. His first job after graduating from BG was as a history and government teacher at Fremont Ross High School. He then became a guidance counselor and served in that role until his retirement in 1997. Jim taught driver's education for 46 years and believed it to be an important service to the Fremont and surrounding communities. He also served on the Ballville Township Board of Zoning Appeals, St. Joseph Elementary School Board and St. Joseph Central Catholic High School Board. Jim enjoyed officiating high school football and basketball and umpiring high school baseball and softball for many years. In addition, he served as Commissioner of the Suburban Lakes League. Jim was a master craftsman and at the age of 58, began building his dream house. In 2004, Jim and Dolores moved into their new home and have enjoyed many years there together with family and friends. Jim was a devoted sports fan, especially the Detroit Tigers, Pistons and Red Wings, and supported all of his children and grandchildren in their athletic and school activities. He is survived by his wife Dolores (Wojton) Ewanski; children, Cindy Heath and Jennifer (Ken) Gonya; three grandchildren, Brandon Heath, Kendall Gonya and Averie Gonya; sister, Ruth (Dave) LaHote; and many extended family members.  A memorial mass will take place on Friday, September 16 at 10:30am at St. Joseph Catholic Church (709 Croghan St., Fremont 43420) with visitation at the church from 9:30-10:30am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Joseph Parish or Sacred Heart Parish. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Herman-Karlovetz Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Fremont. To send an online condolence or view Jim's tribute video, please visit www.hermanfh.com.