James Bernard Bohland, 85, of Martin, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on February 11, 2026, under the devoted care of his fiancé, Donna Gerkensmeyer.

Born August 31, 1940, in Toledo, OH to Clarence and Mildred (Farmer) Bohland, James was a 1958 graduate of Waite High School and later attended Davis Business College. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1962 to 1966, often sharing fond memories of his time stationed in Paris.

A skilled TIG welder by trade, James dedicated 35 years to Teledyne Continental Motors before retiring at age 62. He took great pride in his career, particularly in his collaboration with engineers on the Harpoon Missile program.

James shared 37 happy years of marriage with his wife, Donna (Langenderfer) Bohland, from 1968 until her passing. He was later blessed to find a second deep love with Donna Gerkensmeyer, with whom he shared the last 20 years of his life.

James had a lifelong passion for creating beautiful freshwater aquariums with a particular expertise in raising angelfish. He found simple joys in the outdoors-whether he was tending to his garden, birdwatching, or taking quiet walks through Pearson Metropark. He also looked forward to weekend casino trips, high-stakes (nickel and dimes) poker games with his family, and watching Ohio State football games.

Above all, James was the ultimate family man. He was most at home during holiday celebrations and birthdays, never missing a chance to cheer on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren at sporting events. Known for his sharp wit and a knack for subtle humor, he brought a quiet, clever warmth to every gathering.

He is survived by Donna Gerkensmeyer; his children, Kelly (Timothy) Moore, Christine Bohland (Mark Tarr), Carrie Glover, and James J. Bohland; siblings, Janie (Dick) Simon, John (Sharon), Michael (Joanne), Joseph (fiancé, Pat Trzaskowski), Marty (Debbie), Denny (Jane), and Larry (Darla) Bohland; in-laws, Larry (Mary Ann) Langenderfer, Joyce Dumas, and Marlene Dumas; and grandchildren, Sydney, Hayden, Garrett, Kennedy, Avery, and Carter. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and the extended Gerkensmeyer family. James was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna Bohland; sister, Luella "Cookie" Schramm; brother, Edward Bohland; and in-laws, Deloy Schramm, Dorothy Bohland, Priscilla Bohland, John Dumas, and Mike Dumas.

Family and friends may visit on Saturday, February 14, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Eggleston Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home, 440 S. Coy Rd., Oregon, OH, where funeral services will begin at 12:00 PM. Interment will follow at Lake Township Cemetery in Millbury. For those who are unable to attend in person, we invite you to join us in spirit by viewing the service via livestream on this obituary page below.

Memorial donations can be made in James's name to Heartland Hospice Care who provided compassionate support and care to James in the last two weeks of his life.