James H. Wichman

Born November 14, 1929 – Sandusky, Ohio

James H. Wichman was born in Sandusky, Ohio, to Paul G. and Osie Wichman. A 1947 graduate of Sandusky High School, he proudly served two years in the U.S. Navy, receiving an honorable discharge. After his service, he attended Bowling Green State University and the University of Wisconsin, earning an associate’s degree in banking.

He began his career in banking as an auditor and cashier, steadily working his way up to serve as President during the final 25 years of his professional life. His career included positions with Citizens Bank (Sandusky), Firelands Bank (Huron), Second National/KeyBank (Ravenna), and Ravenna Savings & Loan.

Following his naval service, he met the love of his life, Charlene H. (née Cockrell). They married on May 26, 1951, and celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary in May 2023, just months before Charlene’s passing on October 16, 2023.

He is survived by his children, Betsy (Bruce) Cochran of Tucson, Arizona, and Mark J. Wichman of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; grandchildren Jennifer, Matthew, Charlene (Jo), Michael (Alex), Zachariah, and Dylan; great-granddaughter Margaret; brother John (Judy) Wichman; and nieces and nephew Stephanie, Melinda, and Steven. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Charlene, brother Paul, and daughter-in-law Margaret.

A man of deep faith, he was ordained a Deacon in the Episcopal Church in 1988 and was a dedicated member of Grace Episcopal Church in Ravenna, Ohio. He had a lifelong passion for firefighting, fire history, and fire apparatus, serving as the retired Chaplain of the Ravenna Fire Department and as an honorary chaplain for several other departments. He was also active in his community as a member of the Rotary Club of Ravenna.

His life was defined by service—to his country, his profession, his church, and his community—and by the devotion he held for his family.