James R. Emanuelson

James Emanuelson, 91, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather passed away March 6, 2023. He is again in his happy place, with the love of his life Dolores Patricia Emanuelson who predeceased him in 2015 after 58 years of marriage. Jim is survived by his three children Jim (Karen) Emanuelson, John Emanuelson, and Karen (JR) Rinne; grandchildren Sydney (Jordan) Ruedy, Brandon (Mandaly) Emanuelson, and Corinne (Andrew) Kuhlmann; and great granddaughter Nora Ruedy. Jim was born in Hammond, Indiana, on September 12, 1931 to Clarence and Ethel Emanuelson. A proud member of the Upper Arlington High School class of 1949, Jim earned a B.S. in Mathematics from Denison University where he completed every math class offered, was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, and served as president of the math club and captain of the basketball team, voted most valuable player in 1952-53, holding the school record for Most Points Scored for decades. Working his entire career in the insurance industry in Columbus, Jim retired in 1992 from Columbus Mutual Life as their Vice President, Comptroller and Treasurer.Jim was a true family man. Whether it was coaching little league, helping with Boy Scouts, attending his children’s sporting events or traveling to visit grandchildren, he was always there to support his family. Jim’s interests were varied. He loved the outdoors, taking his family camping despite the weather, putting too much Miracle Grow on his tomato plants, and hitting the golf course with his buddies. He enjoyed playing bridge, building intricate model ships, and creating detailed model railroad layouts. He even converted one of the family’s basements into an enormous railroad display! Most recently, he had taken up painting landscapes under the direction of Bob Ross videos and enjoyed sharing his latest canvas creations with family and friends. A graveside service is set for Monday, March 13, 2023 at Union Cemetery in Columbus, Ohio. Following the service, the family is holding a Celebration of Life at one of Jim’s favorite high school hangouts. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. As Bob Ross said, “Don’t forget to tell these special people in your life just how special they are to you.” Jim, Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa – YOU were special!

James R. Emanuelson

September 12, 1931 - March 6, 2023