James was born January 22, 1949, to James and Berneita Tansey. He moved to Wakeman from Vermilion in 1973, joining the Wakeman Fire Department in 1974. Jim worked for Sears for 51+ years as a repair technician. He served 24 years on the volunteer fire department, from 1974 to 2021, as a firefighter, captain, and chief.

Jim was an advanced EMT and instructor and helped bring Citizens Ambulance Service to the Wakeman area. He was active with Bowling Green Fire School, setting up the curriculum for continuing education, and with the NOVFA where he served as director, president, and vice president. Jim was a councilman for the village, a member of Friends of the Wakeman Library, and a member of Sandusky River Valley Beekeepers Association.

He loved playing waterball (water fights). He enjoyed drag racing, beekeeping, planting a vegetable garden, and wine making. We had our own Concord grape row. It seemed he could fix anything, and he loved the challenge.

Jim will be remembered for his smile, his large sense of humor, and his giving nature. He was always answering the call for someone in need. He is missed every day by so many friends

You are missed every day beyond what words can express. There is a hole in our hearts that cannot be filled. You were taken from our family too soon.

Your wife of 52 years, Mary; daughters, Linette and Julie; and stepson, Michael.