Obituary

Obituary
Mansfield: The greatest example of love is service to others, and Mr. Etz exemplified a heart of service- never being one to meet a stranger, or forget anyone’s name.

James “Mr. Etz” Peter Etzwiler went to be with the Lord Monday evening, March 7, 2022 in Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital surrounded by his family. He was 81.

He was born July 13, 1940 in Mansfield, Ohio to parents Paul and Anna (Nanich) Etzwiler. After graduating from Lexington High School with the class of 1958, he went on to earn a dual bachelor’s degree in Business and Psychology from Ashland College.

While attending youth group at his church a beautiful young lady named Marcia Rapp caught his eye, and the pair soon married on June 23, 1962. The two were members at Southside Christian Church for their entire marriage, where James’ spent countless hours in service over the years by being a caretaker of the church, serving on the Council, being a greeter, and serving as a Deacon. He loved his church family and would often send cards of encouragement to everyone- never missing a chance to send a holiday, birthday, anniversary, or a get-well-soon card.

James worked in many different professions throughout his life, spending some time running the IBM computers at Ashland College, working at Tappan Stove Company, selling long-life lightbulbs, and finally as a salesman at Dubois until he decided to transition to this version of “retirement”. During his retirement James acquired a shuttle service company, and would regularly transport people to and from the airport. He really enjoyed his time doing this, as he loved to hear his passengers regale their tales of travel, which allowed him to travel vicariously through them.

Mr. Etz also spent many beloved years with the Boy Scouts of America Troop 104. He was an assistant Scout Master and a recipient of the Silver Beaver Award, to honor his years of volunteer work with the organization. One of his favorite activities with the troop was the trip to Philmont Scout Ranch, where he was known as the Official Tour Director.

In his spare time, he enjoyed golfing in multiple leagues, fishing on charter boats up at Lake Erie (especially when they were biting), and playing euchre with his card group. But above all else, he cherished his time with his family. James was a doting and supportive grandfather to all of his grandchildren, never missing a sporting event or an opportunity to support them. Any and all time spent with his family, was time well spent in his eyes.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Marcia Lou Etzwiler, son Scott (Veeda Pinneta) Etzwiler, daughter Amy Lynn (Rick) Remy, grandchildren Daniel Etzwiler, Meredith Remy, and Katherine Remy, cousin Kathryn Pefferman, as well as many more beloved friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents.

The Etzwiler family will receive friends Friday, March 11, 2022 from 10 am to 12 p.m. in the Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. A funeral service honoring James’ life will be held immediately after at noon. Pastor Paul Lintern will speak. Burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in James’ memory to can be made at the funeral home to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to the American Red Cross.

Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve James’ family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence to them at SnyderFuneralHomes.com