Saturday, September 13th, 2025
James Godwin
James Frederick Godwin, age 89, of Mendon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at OSU Medical Center Inpatient Hospice in Columbus, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 17, 1935, to the late Clark and Gertrude (Huffman) Godwin, Jim lived a full and adventurous life defined by hard work, family devotion, and a lifelong passion for motorcycles.
A 1954 graduate of Celina High School, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Battalion.
In 1961, Jim followed his dream and founded Jim's Harley Davidson, a business that would become a beloved local institution and remain in operation for 64 years. In the early years of running his shop, Jim also worked at Goodyear Tire & Rubber in St. Marys and New Idea in Coldwater to support his growing business and family. His dedication and work ethic laid the foundation for the success of his motorcycle shop, which became much more than a business-it was a gathering place for bike lovers and friends alike.
On September 24, 1993, he married the love of his life, Marietta "Mary" (Clay) Godwin, who survives at their home in Mendon. Together, Jim and Mary shared a passion for the motorcycle community. For many years, they ran a well-known motorcycle swap meet, which brought riders and vendors from near and far. Through this, they met countless wonderful people and formed lifelong friendships with fellow enthusiasts.
Jim is also survived by his children: Sheryl (Jeff) Godwin-Routt of Van Wert; Jeffrey (Juli) Godwin of Westerville; Dianne (Ken) Wiehe of Celina; Sharron (Tailo Brown) Godwin of Dayton; LeighAnne (Jim) Shaffer of Mendon; Greg (Penny) Zizelman of Mendon; and Kevin Zizelman of Mendon. He was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Mary) Godwin, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Violet Godwin; five brothers, Joe, Bob, Clarence, Harry, and Ralph Godwin; a son, Ricky Zizelman; and a daughter, Debbie Zizelman.
Jim was a longtime member of Celina American Legion Post #210. He found joy in motorcycles, fishing, traveling, and visiting casinos-but nothing compared to his love for bikes. Being surrounded by motorcycles throughout his life was truly a dream come true.
A Funeral Service honoring Jim's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Jim's Forever, Inc., 7172 State Route 707, Mendon, Ohio 45862, with Rev. Matt Overman officiating. Family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Following the service, Jim will be laid to rest with military honors at Mendon Cemetery.
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Cisco Funeral Homes of Celina and St. Marys for their compassionate care and support during this difficult time.
To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.ciscofuneralhome.com or the Cisco Funeral Home Facebook page.
Jim's legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be remembered for his warmth, strength, unwavering love for his family, and his boundless enthusiasm for life on two wheels.
