James Edward Arens

Jim was born in Kansas City, where he met and married the love of his life, Linda. Jim was a devoted husband and proud father of 9, grandfather of 32 and great-grandfather of 12. He held a BS in mechanical engineering and an MS in Materials Science, graduating from Rockhurst College and Marquette University. If you were lucky enough to spend time with him, you’d quickly learn he had a wealth of fascinating and inspiring experiences and accomplishments that he delighted in sharing with others.

After retiring, Jim was a member of St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church in Gahanna, where he faithfully served the Charitable Works Ministry working countless hours in the food pantry, while making dear friends along the way. He quietly lived out his faith through service to others, and will be remembered for his kindness and generosity.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Rose Arens (née Hare).

He is survived by his children, Margaret Hatem, James Jr. (Adelene), Christopher (Shana), Matthew (Andrea), Mary McBride (Oscar), Ann Stanley (John), Daniel (Julie), Susan Rupert (Matt), and Michael (Ann), his 32 grandchildren and his 12 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Martha Fogle (Tom) and Joyce Alderman (Lew), along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

The family would also like to acknowledge those who lovingly cared for Jim in his final months.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Schoedinger Northeast, 1051 E. Johnstown Road, Gahanna, Ohio, where prayers will begin at 6:30 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church, 807 Havens Corners Road, Gahanna, Ohio. A luncheon will immediately follow the Mass until 1:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will then take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Lewis Center, OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Matthew the Apostle Charitable Works Ministry in James’ memory.