James "Jim" Dehnke

James "Jim" Dehnke, 67, passed peacefully September 8th, 2022 of kidney failure. A double lung transplant survivor of eight years, Jim was given a second chance at life. Born March 2nd, 1955 in Canton to James and Marjorie Dehnke. He was a member of Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, enjoyed refereeing high school and college football and watching his kids play sports. Jim also volunteered his time each year as a member of the security team for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival. He was a member of the Jackson Sideliners, The Horsemen. He was also a proud supporter of the Jackson Football and Softball teams, Wittenberg Football Team and the Walsh University Softball Team.

Throughout Jim's long, 10-year health journey he never wanted to give up and always fought through his battles. In the tough times he never failed to bring happiness to others while smiling through his pain. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, James and Marjorie Dehnke, brother Michael Dehnke, sister-in-law Debbie Dehnke, father-in-law Raymond and mother-in-law Viola Babo. Jim is survived by the love of his life and his rock through his health battle, Leisa. Jim is also survived by his pride and joys, sons Max (Fiancé Beth), Jimmy (Fiancé Alexis), twins Noah and Annie, his daughter and sidekick, who was always by his side. In addition, Jim is survived by his most recent loves, his granddogs, Reese and Bentley. Jim is also survived by his siblings Matt (Lou), Pete, Barbie Smead (Denny) and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank all who organized, donated and worked at Jim's fundraiser in May 2014. This eliminated all of Jim's out-of-pocket medical expenses for the past 8+ years. They would also like to thank his buddies who took him to and from many doctors and dialysis appointments.

The last 10 years wouldn't have been do-able without the amazing staff of doctors and nurses at the Cleveland Clinic. There are so many we wish we could personally thank, but would be here for a while. As a family we ask that you please consider being an organ donor and give another family the extra time with their loved one that we were given.

Family and friends will meet on Thursday at 10 a.m. at Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial. Inurnment will be in Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at the Lamiell Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers Jim's family has requested donations go to the Referee Education Fund (REF). Jim was very instrumental in this program for many years, helping to provide college scholarships to the children of area's football officials who are members of The Eastern Ohio Football Officials Association. Please make donation checks out to REF Education Fund and mail to 3904 Darlington Ave NW, Canton, OH. 44708