James Wendell Vannorsdall

VANNORSDALL, James “Jim” Wendell, age 95, of Jeffersonville, OH, passed on Saturday, September 24, 2022. Jim was born on December 3, 1926, to the late Chester and Lillie (Corn) Vannorsdall, in Jeffersonville. He graduated from Jeffersonville High School in 1944 before joining the United States Navy. Following his service Jim attended the University of Dayton, receiving his Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. After his education, Jim began his life-long career with General Motors in Dayton and Indianapolis. One of his many accomplishments was the patent for Frigidaire’s glass top range.

Jim married his wife, Barbara Danzeisen, from Dayton, shortly after his graduation from UD. Together with his young family, Jim relocated to Jeffersonville, OH, where he farmed 150 acres alongside his father. In his free time Jim stayed busy with numerous hobbies. He was a master woodworker and was well known for his miniature recreations of Jeffersonville’s landmarks, such as the United Methodist Church, The Town Hall, the High School, and his original family homestead. Jim was a lifelong sports enthusiast, playing baseball and basketball in his younger years. He could often be found cheering for his favorite teams, including, the Reds, Ohio State, and UD. Jim was a lifelong bicyclist, even completing an 80-mile ride at age 80, and a 100-mile ride with 3 generations of family. More than anything Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, who will forever cherish his memory.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Wayne Vannorsdall; sister-in-law, LaVaun (Rector) Vannorsdall; son-in-law, Larry Stegall; and niece, Lynda (William) Cooper.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Barbara; children, Lorie Stegall, Joel (Patricia) Vannorsdall, and Casey (Timothy Goff) Vannorsdall; grandchildren, Joshua (Carrie), Shannon (Raphael), Jennifer (Shawn), John, and Andrew; great-grandchildren, Emma, Channing, Samuel, Landon, and Hailey; niece, Nita (Andy) Vannorsdall; and other extended family and friends.

A private family graveside was held at Fairview Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 11-1pm on Sunday Nov 6 at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 E. Stroop Rd. Kettering, OH with a service to follow at 1pm. The family will also great guests after the service until 3pm. The family would like to thank the caring staff at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton for all the excellent care they provided Jim. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton.