James A. “Jim” Kreim
James A. “Jim” Kreim, age 61, of Shelby, died unexpectedly on Thursday morning, January 12, 2023 at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital.
Jim was born July 24, 1961 in Shelby to the late Joseph M. and Mary (Kempf) Kreim. He was a 1979 graduate of Shelby High School and furthered his education at North Central Technical College earning an associates degree. His career began in1984 at R.R. Donnelley in Willard where he was still currently employed.
Jim was a “collector” of all sorts of items throughout his life and a man of many interests. He loved airplanes- especially older wartime aircrafts as he was a huge history buff. A Pontiac man through and through, Jim was always the proud owner of at least one Pontiac GTO and sometimes numerous- especially parts. His passion for Pontiacs was reflected in his membership to numerous car clubs, his love for attending car shows, and races at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk. His love for family was evident, especially his grandchildren. However, his first grandchild, Brynn, has always held a special place in his heart- something proven quickly when his “untouchable” GTO suddenly had a car seat in the backseat for her to ride along. It became quite clear that she had stolen his heart and that bond never ceased.
Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 31 years, Susan M. (Prout) Kreim, whom he married July 4, 1992; children: Andrew (Constance) Mahl of Brunswick and Molly Mahl (Matt) of Galion; grandchildren: Brynn Grosswiler, Tanner Garton, Gabriella Krebs, Amelia Krebs, Moira Krebs, Braden Mahl, and Olivia Mahl; sisters: Sharon (Greg) Vogt of Shelby and Ann (Rick) Ralston of Columbus; 2 nephews: Eric Vogt and Cory Vogt; in-laws: Steve (Betty) Prout of Milan, Sandra (Steve) Dean of Centerville, and Sharon (Chris) Schaeffer of Castalia; and other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law: Stephen and Luetta Prout.
Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, January 19, 2023 from 4-7 pm at the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where a rosary will be recited following calling hours at 7 pm. Fr. Chris Mileski will celebrate Jim’s funeral mass on Friday, January 20, 2023 at 10:30 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby, where Jim was a member. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children via their website, www.LoveToTheRescue.org.
Online condolences may be left on Jim’s obituary on the funeral home’s website, www.PenwellTurner.com, or their Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral.
To view Jim’s tribute video, click this link provided: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/GHLH3L9NPZMRZNBC
I am so sorry to hear about Jim please send my condolences prayers for the family all of his friends
Jimmy and my husband Jeremy worked together for many years . When I started at LSB I got the opportunity to know him also. Always saying hi when we pass in the plant. We would talk about being grandparents and all the joy and funny things the grandkids would do. He will be missed. What a wonderful guy. Our deepest sympathy for his family.
We are deeply sorry for your loss. He was a good friend and will be missed .
Sharon,
I’m so sorry to read this. You have my deepest condolences and you and your family are in my prayers.
I am sorry for your family’s loss Jimmy was such a great friend he was always there for you when you needed a friend, I will miss talking to him about cars, classic rock, and family when we talked about family his eyes always light up about his family especially his grand kids. Praying for you and your family Jimmy
I only worked with Jim for a few years but he was always a pleasure to talk to and work with. It’s gonna be difficult not seeing him at work anymore. He was one of the few people at work that made me feel welcome when I started and I could always come to him if I had a question. He always mentioned his children and his grandchildren, so my thoughts and prayers go out to them. He loved you all very much and it showed. Thanks for all your help Jimmy. Prayers for your family. Rest easy Jimmy.
We are so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. You have our sincere and most heart felt condolences. Jim was a good man and will be deeply missed.
Wow. Gary and I are shocked. So sorry to hear the news. Prayers for the entire family.
Jim & I went to Pioneer JVS together where we studied Electronics during our Junior and Senior years of High School. We were able to stay friends for some time beyond that, but I soon lost track of him as our lives progressed. We went to see Linda Ronstadt perform in the 1980’s, spent time at the now defunct Wild Willies club in Mansfield where we also saw live music, and I went on a long distance roadtrip with Jim when he was scouting out another GTO for purchase. It was a maroon colored ’69 with a 4-speed that came with a few extra parts. He instantly knew it was going to be his, and it was. He was so proud of his black ’69 Judge & the ’68 turquoise Goat. Jim was a stand-up guy that I always respected & wished the best for. I wish I’d made a greater effort to stay in touch, but life happens. I wish only the best for his Family in this time of change & Godspeed for Jim.
Having known Jim for probably 20 years through the Pontiac Community, I am very sorry to hear of his passing. He was one of the most polite guys I’ve ever met. Always a handshake and a warm smile when we’d see each other. My condolences for his family and friends… from myself and the Pontiacs of Southeastern In Club. RIP GTO brother.
I am sorry sorry to hear we have lost Jim, he truly had became a friend and a client, he had quite a sense of humor which will always made me smile! I sure will miss him more than he knew I would. My heart goes out to his sisters, wife and special granddaughter, whom I felt like I should have know since he talked about her all the time! again I’m so so sorry!
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Was a pleasure working with him at RR Donnelly. He will be greatly missed. He was nice guy to work with.
I met Jim in 1991as we worked together at RR Donnelly. We quickly became best friends.He was a true friend for all these years. We shared a passion for Pontiacs as we wrenched together on the weekends. We bought and sold each other parts and tools. When I moved to Texas in 2007 Jim bought my 4 post lift. Well actually I nearly gave it to him since I was moving and he had helped me with so much over the years. Often I would weld or paint parts for Jim. I really enjoyed going to car shows and races at Norwalk.
I am still in shock that my friend is no longer around.
Jim had particular taste so whenever he came over we had to be sure we had grape kool-aid and a salad with just lettuce and cheese ready for him.
I will never forget the Bucks car show in Lexington. They offered 2 go-kart tickets for every car show vehicle. A group of us all went go-karting and poor Jim was the victim of a hit and run that rendered his go-kart useless on both runs.
He was so much fun. I miss my buddy and have cried this week more than ever.
My condolences to Sue and family. Goodbye to my buddy.
Hi Kreim Family. Our sincere condolences..
We have known Jim since the GTO CLUB OF MANSFIELD
, early 70’s.
I could find him at every PONTIAC CAR SHOW OR SWAP MEET. My friend will be sorely missed.
Chuck and Janie Lambert
I just learned of Jim’s passing today, and am so very sorry. My condolences to Susan, Sharon, Ann and the entire family.