James L Spidle

On November 30, 2024 we said goodbye to Jim with his wife Kara at his side.

Jim was born on May 11, 1959 in Beach City, Ohio, the son of the late J. Robert Spidle and Elizabeth Spidle Reed. He was a graduate of Massillon High School and Ohio State University. Later, he met Kara and they made Columbus Ohio their home. He spent most of his career in the medical field and retired from McKesson after 38 years. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Kara (nee Koprowski), his sister Janet Roberts (Mike, nephews Matt, Greg), sister-in-law Ginny (nephew Kevin, niece Leslie), stepsister Linda Swaisgood and stepbrother Larry Reed. His brother John preceded him in death.

It is difficult to put into a few words what Jim meant to his family and friends but those who knew him understood his unwavering loyalty to friends and family and his love for Kara. Jim had a quick, dry wit that even his illness could not suppress.

Sports were a large part of Jim’s life. Jim played baseball and basketball then spent over 25 years coaching and playing softball. We are so grateful for our softball family – thank you for your love and support. Jim loved being on the softball diamond and was respected both as a player and a coach. He was an avid fan of the Bucks, Browns, Packers and most of all the Cleveland Indians. (OK - Guardians - but always the Tribe in our hearts.) Please raise a toast to Jim the next time any of them win a championship. Many of the softball family crossed over to our Dicks Den friends who welcomed Jim into their post retirement lunches and many gatherings and celebrations. Jim and Kara loved to travel with Hawaii and South Carolina at the top of their favorite places. They treasured time spent with family and friends in Florida, South Carolina and northeastern Ohio.

Please join us for a celebration of Jim in the spring with more details forthcoming, He will be buried in Wilmot Ohio. 

Please consider donating blood, asking a family member or friend to donate blood or go with someone that may need support when they donate. It truly saves lives. We love you Jim!