James Lee Dishon

James Lee Dishon, age 85, of Newark, passed away on Monday, August 20, 2018. Jim was born July 15, 1933 in Zanesville, Ohio to the late James K. and Hester (Blythe) Dishon.

Jim retired from the City of Newark Fire Department in 1985 after 30 years of service. He was named Firefighter of the Year in 1982. He was a member of the International Association of Firefighters Local 109 for 63 continuous years and was also a member of the American Legion Post #85 and Newark Eagles #387. Jim was a veteran of the United States Navy serving during the Korean Conflict aboard the U.S.S. Oberon.

He enjoyed the Ohio State Buckeyes, weekly bull sessions with his firefighter friends over coffee, and spending many years at Lake Erie boating and fishing. Jim and his beloved dog, J.R., are now together again.

Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia Ann (Brookover) Dishon; children, Michele Smith, Jamie Lutz, Lisa Edwards and Scott Dishon; step-daughter, Cheryl (Terry) Toomey; eight grandchildren; two step-grandsons; six great-grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Gene Swaney; and nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant son, James A. Dishon; and a sister, Dolores Offenburger.

Special thanks to good friend, John Simmers, for his help and support to Jim and the family.

At Jim’s request, there will be no visitation or service observed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Foundation for Hospice of Central Ohio, P.O. Box 430, Newark, OH 43058 or to the Licking County Humane Society, 825 Thornwood Drive SW, Heath, OH 43056.

Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral Home is honored to care for Jim and the Dishon family.