James A. Mechenbier M.D.

James Mechenbier, second of Edward and Helen Mechenbier’s family of 8 children, lived his whole life exuberantly. Born in Toledo, he grew up in Dayton, attending Chaminade Catholic High School, where he excelled athletically and scholastically. He was awarded a full scholarship to Dartmouth College in 1961, then went on to Medical school at Ohio State University, completing a residency in Otolaryngology. At Dartmouth he had learned to play rugby. Had learned to love Rugby. And there was always music.

Through his life he remained active in sports, raised a family, grew a medical practice and for many years continued playing rugby, softball, soccer, and running marathons with best friend Howard Petricoff, and making lifelong friends. He began to be tagged with unique names. A high school sports columnist in Dayton called him “Bull Moose” noting his strength in football. To teammates, he was “Doc”. To his siblings and their spouses, to Ed, Tom, Jan, Mary Lou, Gail, Lora and Chaz he was “Jimmy” and “Jimbo”. To his children whom he loved wholly, Kim, Andy and Tami Mechenbier, he was of course “Dad”. To David, he was “Bonus Dad” and to grandchildren Caden, Grayson, and Kwynn, he was “Grandpa”.

To Mary Ann, he was a wonder in his bravery and capacity to live and love fully. He will forever be loved.

We thank Albert, Tessie and Steve for their devoted care and the hospice team members JoAnne and Lauren who provided excellent care and support. And we thank all of you who were with us in different ways through this ten year journey.

Calling Hours: Saturday, February 22, 1-5pm Service: Sunday, February 23, at noon

Schoedinger Northwest 1740 Zollinger Rd Columbus, OH 43221

Celebration of Life Sunday, February 23 1-5 pm at Ohio State Golf Club

Donations may be made to Ohio Health Kobacker House and Mount Carmel Hospice and Palliative Care