On December 14, 2023, James “Jim” Edward Gadd, Jr., 77 of Crestline, peacefully passed away at Winchester Terrace in Mansfield. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service that will forever be treasured by his family and friends.
Jim was born on June 5, 1946, in Shelby, Ohio, to the late James Gadd, Sr., and Genieve (Fackler) Gadd. He began his journey in law enforcement, serving as a dedicated police officer and detective for the Mansfield Police Department. After retirement, Jim was committed to working on cold cases. With his sharp instincts and unwavering sense of justice, Jim made a lasting impact on his community, ensuring the safety and security of its residents throughout his career.
However, it was Jim’s love for Harley Davidson motorcycles that truly fueled his spirit. Nothing brought him greater joy than embarking on exhilarating rides, feeling the wind against his face as he explored the open roads. With each journey, he found a sense of freedom and peace, exemplifying his adventurous spirit.
Above all, Jim treasured the time spent with his loved ones, especially his family. He was a loving and devoted father to his daughter, Christa, and cherished being by her side as she embarked on her own life’s journey. As a proud grandfather to Megan, Claudia, and Jamie, he showered them with unconditional love, guidance, and support. His great-grandchildren, William and Allyssa McKee, Carter and Alex Watkins, Maddalie and Mia Boyle, Wyatt and Lane Spiegel, Christopher and Lukas Fricker, brought an extra twinkle to his eyes, filling his heart with immeasurable happiness. He treasured the many memories shared amongst his granddaughters and taking them across Ohio on many road trips. It brought Jim extra joy being able to share his birthday with his great grandson, Wyatt and celebrating with a shake from Frank’s Treat Time.
Jim will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Christa (Steven) Aidt of Crestline; his granddaughters, Megan Boyle of Shelby, Claudia (Adam) Spiegel of Crestline and Jamie (Adam) Fricker of Dixon, MS; his great-grandchildren, William and Allyssa McKee, Carter and Alex Watkins, Maddalie and Mia Boyle, Wyatt and Lane Spiegel, Christopher and Lukas Fricker; his brother, Jerry (Claudia) Gadd; his niece and nephews, Jill (Sherman) Bond, Jeremy (Natalie) Gadd, and Jonathan (Brandy) Gadd, his partner and best friend who was like a brother, Mike “Boomer” (Jeanne) Bammann and a host of extended family members and friends.
Friends may call on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, from 4:00pm until 6:00pm at Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 223 W. Main St., Crestline. A service will immediately follow at 6:00pm with Chaplain Mike Wilson officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in care of the funeral home.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Southern Care Hospice for the fantastic care that was provided to Jim.
Those wishing to share a memory of Jim or send condolences to the Gadd family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.
The Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 223 W. Main Street, Crestline is honored to serve the family of James “Jim” Edward Gadd, Jr.
Funeral Home: Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home
Website: Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home