James R. Blum, 69, of Vero Beach, FL, passed away on December 17th, 2016.

He was born to the late John and Bernadina Blum on September 2, 1947, in Columbus, OH. Jim graduated from Walnut Ridge High School in 1965, received his BS in Education in 1972 from Ohio University and his MA in 1993 from The Ohio State University. Jim was employed in the Columbus Public School District for 30 years where he taught history, government and psychology. Jim was a basketball and baseball coach. His enthusiasm and love of teaching led his students to success in the classroom and to victory on the field.

Whether he was known as Jim, Jam or Jamie, regardless of blood, his love for his kids was sincere and bountiful. He also had a special devotion to his four-legged friends. Jim was an avid sports enthusiast and loved his Buckeyes, Browns, Cavaliers, and the Tribe. His adventurous spirit led him to destinations including Kenya (with EarthWatch), Antigua, St. Maarten, Grand Cayman, Hawaii, cruises to Alaska, Panama, Germany and countless other locales. He could be found tending his garden every morning with a wave and a smile to every passerby. Those who loved him will remember him most by his sharp wit, easy laugh and his loyal and genuine spirit.

Jim is survived by his loving soulmate, Carolyn Oliver and her son Benjamin of Columbus, OH and Carolyn's mother, Elsie Murphy of Vero Beach; brother, Chuck (Joann) Blum of Dublin, OH; brother, David (Karen) of Pickerington, OH; stepdaughter, Laurie (Chad) Brennan of Dublin, OH; stepson, Chris Stanek of Dublin, OH; grandchildren, Aliya, Anya and Milena; nieces, nephews as well as many colleagues and friends.

A visitation will be held at the Cox-Gifford-Seawinds Funeral Home at 1:00 pm on Sunday, January 15th, 2017, with a memorial service at 2:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life gathering at the Trillium Club House.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the VNA Hospice Foundation, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Online condolences may be shared on this website.

A simultaneous service and gathering will be held at Upper Arlington Lutheran Church--in the Founders Hall, 2300 Lytham Rd, Columbus, OH. 43220 on January 15th, 2017 at 2:00 pm followed by food and fellowship and sharing fun stories.