James Reno Kiene, 93, passed away July 27, 2023 at The Meadows of Ottawa. Jim was born July 1, 1930 in Pandora to the late Joseph and Gertrude (Stechshulte) Kiene. On July 1, 1950 he married the love of his life, Catheryn (Diller) Kiene who preceded him in death on February 2, 2008.
Jim graduated from Pandora-Gilboa High School where he excelled in football and proudly won the State Wrestling Championship. He retired from and loved working with his co-workers at the Lima Ford Engine Company, where he worked from 1957-1987. After retirement he helped his wife, Cassie, with her craft business Colonial Creations. He was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bluffton.
Jim was a “dog whisperer” and loved coon and squirrel hunting with his hounds. Jim greatly enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s sporting events and cheered them on with his bright and contagious smile. Spending time with his great-grandchildren was one of his favorite joys in life. He liked to stay busy and was always on the move. He rode his bike almost every day and said that’s when he did a lot of his praying. Jim will be remembered for many of his wonderful qualities, but may be remembered most for his kind heart and ability to always put others first. He was extremely loved and will be greatly missed.
Survivors include two sons, Steve (Valerie) Kiene of Pandora, Joe (Deb) Kiene of Bluffton; five grandchildren, Michael (Stacey) Kiene, Katie (Abigail Metcalfe) Kiene, Kash (Jenny) Kiene, Kelsea (Harold Walters) Kiene and Terra Kiene. Four great-grandchildren, Jase, Jett, Decker and Rocco Kiene.
Jim was preceded in death by a son, Gregory Kiene; two brothers, Richard Kiene, Charles Kiene; a twin sister Jean Beckman and three sisters, Rosemary Latta, Agnes Friedel and Cecilia Webster.
Jim’s memorial mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bluffton with Father John Stites officiating. A private burial will be at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Bluffton. Visitation will be Monday, August 7, 2023 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/
