PODIAK, James Stanley, age 69, loving father, grandfather, brother, and longtime Kettering resident, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. Born June 17, 1956, in Toledo, Ohio, Jim was the loving son of Robert J. and Ima Jean Podiak. He was a 1974 graduate of Fairmont East High School in Kettering and went on to attend Ohio University.

Jim spent his life creating and building, whether through music, art, bridges, or improvements to people’s homes, always leaving things better than he found them. His talents, curiosity, and willingness to help others were evident in everything he undertook.

A devoted man of faith, Jim was an active parishioner of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, where he served as an usher and was a member of the Keenagers. His parish community was an important part of his life and a place where he shared both friendship and service.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert J. and Ima Jean; his brother, William Edward; and his sister, Susan Elizabeth Wolf (Podiak). He is survived by his daughter, Stacey Potter and her husband Doug; his son, Matt Podiak; grandchildren Koah, Finley, Amelia, Kaydence, and Gatlin. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters and their spouses: Rob; Cathy; Tom and Susan (Wright); Michael and Susan (Plourde); Nancy; and Dick and Bonny (Morgan); as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many wonderful friends. Jim’s generosity, service, faith, gentle soul, and love will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 19, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to Mass. Cremation will follow, with interment at Woodland Cemetery in Dayton at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the St. Francis of Assisi Conference, St. Vincent de Paul Society District Council of Dayton, Ohio, Inc.