James J. Mihelich

James (Jim) Joseph Mihelich, age 56, of Columbia Station, passed away on April 10, 2022, after a brave battle with cancer and is peacefully dwelling in the House of the Lord. On September 21, 1965, James was born to Joseph A. Mihelich and Theresa F. (nee Krysh) in Cleveland, Ohio.  After graduating from Strongsville High School in 1983, Jim went on to study Civil Engineering at the University of Cincinnati, including a co-op at the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). Upon graduating, Jim continued his career at ODOT with many roles, including Project Engineer at District 12. He elected to retire with over 30 years of service. While working, Jim obtained his National Society of Professional Engineers license and his Master of Business Administration at Cleveland State University. Jim continued to share his expertise in public service as Assistant to the Service Director at Olmsted Township and as the Assistant City Engineer at the City of Parma. As a devout Catholic, Jim attended Mass at St. Adalbert Church in Berea, Ohio, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and attended St. Stephen’s Church at the traditional Latin Mass in Cleveland, Ohio.  Jim practiced Kung Fu since the age of fourteen and later taught students this martial art. While living in Japan for a year, he taught English as a second language. He was an avid fisherman, potato pancake and bread maker, and a gentleman farmer. His charismatic personality touched all his friends and family, and his gift was to embrace all and become their best friend. Jim is survived by his loving and devoted wife Colleen L. (nee Kushlak), and children Jakob, Eva, Maria, and Casimir. Loving son of Theresa F. and siblings Anne (John) Ross, Paul (Dawn) Mihelich, Elizabeth (Dennis) Martin, Daniel Mihelich, Rachel (Bradley) Stoecker. He is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and aunts. Dennis and Mary (Bell) Kushlak, father and mother-in-law, along with their children and spouses, were a large part of his life. Jim is preceded in death by his father, Joseph, and sister Victoria.  Memorial Mass will be held Monday, April 18, 2022, at 11 am, St. Adalbert Church in Berea, Ohio with reception to immediately follow at the Keller Center at St. Adalbert Church. All are welcome to join the family for fellowship to remember and celebrate the life of this extraordinary man.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Padre Pio Academy, 12920 Madison Ave, Lakewood, Ohio 44107

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