James Walton

James A. Walton was born on September 27, 1936, in Piqua, Ohio, and passed away on December 9, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hattie and D.P. “Curly” Walton. Jim is survived by his children: David Walton (Andrea), Julie (Chris Larger), Jeff (Laura Knipfer), Elizabeth (Brian Seitz), Bill Palmer (Alexis), and Karyn McCranie (Rick). He also leaves behind grandchildren: Howard (Kayliegh) Johnson, Nick (Brooke) Walton, Alexis Walton, Chet Larger, Frances Seitz, Emerson Seitz, Tyler Flewelling, Madeliene Palmer, Grace Palmer, Isabella Palmer, and Julia Knipfer. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Charlie, McCoy, and Cora Johnson. He is also survived by his cousin, Bonnie (Doug) Murray.

Early Life and Education

Jim was born in Piqua, Ohio, in 1936 and spent his early years there until his father was called into service with the local guard for World War II. In 1941, Jim and his parents relocated among various army bases, including Gulfport, Mississippi (kindergarten), Brownwood, Texas (first grade), Jacksonville, Florida (second grade), and Claxton, Georgia (second and third grades). In 1945, he and his mother returned to Hamilton, Ohio, where they lived with his grandmother, Aunt Charlotte, and cousin Bonnie Zimmerman while the men were serving in the armed forces. Jim often reflected on this time, noting the unique experience of being an eight-year-old surrounded by five strong and resilient French-German women.

After the war, the family moved back to Piqua in 1946. Jim graduated from Piqua High School in the class of 1954, where he was active in football, basketball, and baseball, and earned “All State” honors in basketball.

Academic and Military Service

Following high school, Jim attended Purdue University and graduated in 1958 with a degree in Civil Engineering. He was a member of the Delta Upsilon Fraternity and earned his commission as a Second Lieutenant through the ROTC program. Jim served two tours in the United States Army, an experience of which he was particularly proud. He reported for duty at Fort Knox in Louisville, Kentucky, before moving into the reserves. During this time, Jim reconnected with his high school friend Judy Tinkler, whom he married in 1960. The couple returned to Columbus, Ohio, where they welcomed their first child, David, before Jim was called up for the Berlin Crisis of 1961 and stationed at Camp Pickett in Blackstone, Virginia. After his second tour, the family returned to Columbus and welcomed three more children: Julie, Jeffrey, and Elizabeth, before Jim and Judy separated and divorced in 1980

Professional Accomplishments

After his military service, Jim dedicated himself to his career, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. He held significant roles at American Air Filter and Russell Smith Equipment Co., where he was recognized for his innovation and leadership. During this period, Jim met John Ketchum, a fellow Piqua native and manufacturer’s representative for Piqua manufacturer, Aerovent Fan Company. Together, they founded the Ketchum and Walton Company, transforming a two-person partnership in Columbus, OH into a regional leader with over eleven offices from Chicago through the Midwest to Washington DC, Baltimore, and the greater New York City area. The company specializes in sales and specification of acoustics, air filtration, air cleaning, and industrial air control products. Jim and his company were consistently recognized as industry leaders in sales performance.

Family and Personal Life

In 1988, Jim married Lydia, with whom he shared 38 wonderful and loving years. Through this union, he gained two additional children, Karyn and Bill, and the family grew to include eleven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Jim’s devotion to his family was evident in all aspects of his life.

Passions and Interests

Beyond his professional pursuits, Jim was passionate about golf. He joined Worthington Hills Country Club in 1969 and became a cherished member of the club community, which is where he met and fell in love with Lydia. Later, Jim and Lydia also became members of The Golf Club at Pelican Bay. In retirement, the couple enjoyed 30 years together in their condo in Pelican Bay, Naples, Florida. They spent summers in Worthington to be close to their children and grandchildren, allowing Jim to enjoy golf year-round and spend precious time with his loved ones.

Achievements and Memberships

• Duncan yo- yo champion of 1950

• Piqua High School Basketball Hall of Fame inductee

• Member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity at Purdue University

• Proud member of the Purdue Alumni Association

• Member of the Knights of Columbus

• President of Worthington Hills Country Club 1991 - 1992

Burial and Memorial

Burial and interment will be a private affair with immediate family only.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim’s name to:

• The Walton Family Scholarship through the Piqua Education Foundation

• Kobacker House