James Mentges

James R. Mentges, age 74, of Sidney, Ohio, passed away at Lima Memorial Hospital on August 4, 2025, at 3:45 a.m. He was born on March 5, 1951, to the late John R. Mentges and Mary Alice Jordan. James was united in marriage to Barbara A. Mentges, who preceded him in death on June 22, 2019.

He is survived by his brother, John (Deb) Mentges, and his sister, Jane Pohlman. He is also survived by numerous in-laws: Teresa (Glenn) DeLand, Joseph (Fran) Holthaus, Michael (Mary) Holthaus, James (Deb) Holthaus, Clem (Kelly) Holthaus, David (Gloria) Holthaus, and Marcia Holthaus. In addition, he is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, as well as his treasured neighbors. Along with his parents and his wife Barbara, James was also preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, John Pohlman and Vernon Holthaus.

A graduate of Sidney High School, Class of 1970, James dedicated over 50 years of service to Copeland in Sidney. Following his retirement, he continued to stay active by delivering pizzas for several years.

In his earlier years, James volunteered as an umpire for the Sidney Amateur Baseball League, Girls Softball, and IUTIS. A devoted sports enthusiast, he was an avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, and the Ohio State Buckeyes, and proudly held season tickets to the Dayton Dragons.

James will be remembered for his sense of humor and generosity. He possessed a heart full of compassion and was always willing to help those in need, and would give the shirt off of his back to a stranger. His kindness, laughter, and unwavering spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

"Other than that... nothing else is going on!"

James was a member of Holy Angels Catholic Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will take place at Salm-McGill & Tangeman Funeral Home on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. Burial will be held at Graceland Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Angels Catholic Church. Salm-McGill & Tangeman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Mentges family.