James P. “Jim” Lichtenwalter, 88, of Mansfield, passed away peacefully Wednesday morning, April 21, 2026.
Born June 17, 1937, in Ashland, Jim was the son of Meredith and Jessie (Botteron) Lichtenwalter. He was a 1955 graduate of Mansfield Senior High School and went on to continue his education at Purdue University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering.
Jim devoted his professional life to the communities he served. He worked as a civil engineer for the City of Mansfield for 40 years and later with the Richland County Engineer’s Office for 17 years. Across his remarkable 57-year career, Jim became known not only for his expertise, but for his unwavering integrity. He approached every project with honesty, precision, and a deep sense of responsibility, ensuring that his work was thorough, thoughtful, and ethical.
Jim’s life was defined not only by his work, but by the enduring love he shared with his wife. Jim often recalled first seeing Joyce as she drove past the Woodland Pool, while Joyce fondly remembered noticing him at the Appleseed Bowling Alley. From those early moments grew a marriage of more than 66 years, grounded in loyalty and devotion. Together, they built a life centered on love and family.
A gentle and kind-hearted man, Jim had a special love for animals. He cared for rescue animals and volunteered his time at a local animal shelter, reflecting his compassionate nature. He was a familiar presence in his neighborhood, where he enjoyed daily walks and friendly conversations. Jim never met a stranger and valued the simple connections of everyday life.
He was an avid reader with a sharp and curious mind, particularly drawn to nonfiction and history. Whether reading the Mansfield News Journal or immersed in a history book, Jim had a lifelong passion for learning. He was a member of Southside Christian Church, a life member of the Ohio Genealogical Society, a life member of the Purdue Alumni Association, and a member of Phi Delta Theta.
Above all, Jim was devoted to his family. He took great joy in supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending their school and sporting events with pride and encouragement.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Lichtenwalter; his children, Cindi LeMaster, Kim Lichtenwalter (Brad May, and Charlie), Lynn (Craig) Donnan, and Jerry (Heather) Lichtenwalter; his grandchildren, Jordan Yates, Lauren (Zak) Fithian, Krista (Jacob) Shockley, Kristen (Craig) Sumner, Megan (Grant) McGovern, Payton Donnan (Brett), Terra (Jordan) Bittner, and Aaron LeMaster; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Ava, Kinley, Cooper, Ellis, Emma, Addie, Kennedy, Cole, and Carter.
Funeral services celebrating the life of James Lichtenwalter will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11 am in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. Celebrant Dave Roberts will speak and burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Richland County Humane Society. Jim’s tribute video may be viewed online at:SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes Lexington Avenue Chapel
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com