James "Mike" Picklesimer "Pickle," 66, passed away October 25, 2025, at the Meadows of Ottawa.

Mike was born May 9, 1959 in Findlay, to James Leo and Betty (Grant) Picklesimer who preceded him in death. On August 23, 2002 he married Jennifer (Strahm) Picklesimer who survives.

Mike graduated from Bluffton High School in 1977. He dedicated many years at the Bluffton Schools as a custodian before he later became a firefighter/paramedic for American Township Fire Department. He also was a member of the Columbus Grove Fire Department where he served as the assistant chief and Columbus Grove EMS where he served as chief. Mike's biggest passion was helping and serving others on many fire department and EMS agencies. He will be remembered as a dedicated mentor to many and for his unending support for the communities in which he cared for. Above all, he loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Picklesimer of Columbus Grove; two sons, Shane Picklesimer of Findlay and Craig (Cherie Amerson) Picklesimer of Findlay; two step-children, Joshua Basinger of Columbus Grove and Jordin (Wyatt Matter) Basinger of Bluffton; four grandchildren, Makenna, Lyric, Lennon and Wrenlee Picklesimer; and three sisters, Joyce (Gregus) Smith of Bluffton, Delphia Jean Miracle of Findlay, and Jana Theis of Bardstown, KY.

In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Joe Theis.

Services will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services - Bluffton. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the funeral home, as well as on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 10:00- 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Columbus Grove Fire Department or Columbus Grove EMS.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/

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