James L. Polewchak, age 76, passed away February 21, 2026, in Cincinnati, Ohio.  He was born January 19, 1950, in Painesville to Stephen Polewchak and Barbara (Watson) Polewchak.

James proudly served in the United States Army in Vietnam. He was in the 3rd Battalion, 16th Artillery Americal Division and earned several commendation medals. James was a firefighter for the City of Mentor until back injuries forced him to retire.  He was a self-employed sign maker and many of his hand-carved, hand-painted signs remain throughout Lake County.

James was admired for his artistic talent.  James' appreciation for nature, American history, and old barns were inspiration for many of his works. An art show in 2011 at Penitentiary Glen displayed his paintings of scenes within Lake Metroparks. James participated in historical reenactments, especially valuing the French and Indian War era. James made many dear friends through his passions of art and history.  James valued continual learning and improving one's craft which contributed to a book collection that would rival a small library. He moved to southwestern Ohio in 2014 to be near his daughter and grandsons and there he became active in the Cincinnati art community.

James is survived by his daughter, Dr. Jennifer (Del) Farley, and grandsons, Andrew Bellman and Nicholas Bellman. He is also survived by his sister Cheryl (Polewchak) Orth and several cousins and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, James Polewchak, Jr in 2011, his parents Stephen Polewchak Sr and Barbara (Watson) Polewchak, brothers Stephen Polewchak Jr, and Tony Polewchak, sister Mary (Polewchak) Kelly, half-siblings Ron White and Janice White, and nephew John Polewchak.

Friends will be received 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Spear Mulqueeny Funeral Home, 667 Mentor Avenue, Painesville, Ohio.  Funeral Services will be at 10:00 AM, Saturday, February 28th.  Burial will be at Concord Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions to: CreatiVets.org

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