James "Jim" W. Goedde

James W. Goedde, 90, of Defiance, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Friday, March 1, 2024, at CHP Defiance Area Hospice Inpatient Center.  
  
Jim who was affectionately known by many as just "Goedde" was born on April 6, 1933, to Raymond and Alta (Geren) Goedde in Defiance, Ohio.  He was a 1951 Defiance High School graduate. After graduation Jim proudly served his country in the US Navy during the Korean War on the USS Iowa.  He then attended the Fort Wayne International Business College. On March 17, 1972, he married Kathleen Scofield, who survives.  "Goedde" was the Office Manager for Bolley Motor Sales in Defiance, and after his retirement Jim worked with Phil Kerr Motor Sales, Ron Heller Motor Sales, and Schaffer Funeral Home, all of Defiance. 
  
He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Life Member of Defiance Elks, Defiance Eagles, and New Bavaria VFW, a member of AmVets Post 1991, Jewell American Legion, and the USS Iowa Association.  Jim also was the recipient of the Defiance Elks Elk of the Year award 1997-1998.  
  
James is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Kathleen Goedde of Defiance, daughter, Kristine M. (Jason) Walters of Defiance, and his grandson, Timothy (Morghin) Walters of Defiance.  
  
He was preceded in death by his parents.
  
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, with a vigil service at 2:00 pm. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11:00 am at the funeral home, with Father John Stites and Pastor Alan Fuhrhop officiating. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, with military honors being done by VFW Post 3360.
  
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting for donations in "Goedde's" memory directed to CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center, St. Mary Catholic Church, or Independence United Methodist Church. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.
  

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