News Summary
The Mentor community is grieving the loss of James F. ‘Jim’ Struna, a dedicated teacher, councilman, and local legend. His contributions to education and public service left a profound impact on many. Struna’s legacy includes over three decades of teaching at Lakeland Community College and significant political leadership in Mentor. He is remembered for his commitment to community and family, alongside his passion for sailing. Memorial services are planned to honor his life and contributions.
Mentor, Ohio Mourns the Passing of Local Legend James F. ‘Jim’ Struna
James F. ‘Jim’ Struna, a beloved mentor, teacher, and active member of the Mentor City Council, passed away on October 22, 2025, at the age of 83. His death is a significant loss not only for his family but also for the many lives he touched throughout his career in education and public service.
Born on May 11, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio, Struna began his teaching career in 1965 in Bakersfield, California. Just a year later, he returned to Ohio, where he took a position at Mentor High School. Jim enjoyed a lengthy career with a notable 30 years at Lakeland Community College, where he became a respected professor and mentor to countless students.
In addition to his dedication to education, Struna was a prominent figure in local politics. He began representing Ward 4 on the Mentor City Council in 1980. Struna’s leadership qualities were recognized when he was elected City Council President in 1990, a position he held until 1996. After his presidency, he continued to serve as a Councilman-at-Large until his retirement in 2001, leaving a lasting legacy in the city he loved.
A Passion for Sailing and Family Life
Outside his professional life, Jim Struna had a profound love for sailing. He joined the Mentor Harbor Yachting Club as a crew member in 1980 and became an official member in 1996. His passion for the sport was evident as he continued to sail and race, enjoying the camaraderie it brought.
Moreover, Struna was an avid reader, instilling a love for literature and lifelong inquiry in his two daughters, Kathryn and Stephanie Struna. He was not just a teacher in the classroom but also a devoted and loving husband to his wife of 60 years, Judith (nee Lentz), and a caring father. His dedication to family extended to his many nieces and nephews, who cherished him deeply.
Community Impact and Legacy
Jim Struna’s impact on his community is difficult to quantify, but those who knew him recognize his unwavering commitment to making Mentor a better place. He was a compassionate individual who worked tirelessly for the benefit of his fellow citizens, balancing his passion for teaching with his love for public service.
In addition to his devoted family, Jim is survived by his sister, Susan Subel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Isabell Struna, and his brother-in-law, Richard Subel.
Final Arrangements and Contributions
Family and friends are invited to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Mentor, Ohio, to pay their respects from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, honoring Jim’s legacy of kindness and community service.
As the community of Mentor reflects on the life of James F. ‘Jim’ Struna, it becomes evident that his contributions will be remembered, and his spirit will continue to inspire both current and future generations.
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Additional Resources
- Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home: James F. ‘Jim’ Struna Obituary
- Legacy.com: Judith Rigo Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Maureen Russo Obituary
- Cleveland.com: Concord Township Businessman
- Wikipedia: Mentor, Ohio
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