James A. Mowrey

James A Mowrey  07.27.1935 - 01.20.2025 

 A farmer, a friend, and a carnie!  

Jim Mowrey, lifelong resident of Wooster died Monday at the age of 89 following a period of declining health, he passed peacefully at home. 

Born to Lois and Arlo Mowrey on the family farm. He grew up bailing hay, working the fields, tending the cattle, milkers and hogs. He was a hardworking dedicated farmer.   

Jim graduated from Wooster High School. Upon graduating in 1953. He joined the US Army after high school serving 4 years and becoming a certified sharp-shooter. Jim was married to Sue Walter for 18 years and they reared two daughters. He served as a volunteer fireman with the New Pittsburg Fire Department and was a Chester Township Trustee. Jim pitched (southpaw) in the men's softball league. He was a long time member of the Elks Lodge and The Greater Ohio Showman's Association (GOSA).  

Continuing to work the family farm, Jim also displayed an entrepreneurial spirit. He opened The Kone Korner, an ice cream shop with his brother in law "Uncle Bobby" Bob Walter. He also owned and operated a trucking business with Danny Becker. He bought a lime spreader and served many of the local farmers and neighbors. In 1975, Jim embarked on a seasonal career as a "carnie", building and operating food concession trailers. He managed to land some prime locations at the county fairs. Calling upon his wide range of skills, he built the trailers himself from the ground up. He was personally involved in all aspects of the operation. It is estimated that Jim personally peeled over 10,000 Vidalia onions! He was known for his El Mist hot turkey sandwiches with gravy that drew long lines every year. His sausage, steak and french fry trailers attracted repeat customers for over 40 years! His food was loved by many. Often before the fair crowds arrived, Jim would offer a hot, healthy home cooked meal to the ride companies hired help and looked forward to it. 

For years, Jim was a regular fixture at The Parlor, the late coffee shop on Liberty Street where he could be found wearing his Yankees cap, catching up with his buddies over a cup of coffee and a bowl of hot oatmeal.  

Jim was a very caring man with a gentle spirit  and low-key personality. He had many acquaintances and would not hesitate to lend a hand or share a tool. He was a long time fan of the Cleveland Browns, Oakland Raiders, and the New York Yankees. Jimmy will be deeply missed by his daughters Beth and Jamie; grandchildren Devon, Donovan, Emma, Simon and Oliver, and great granddaughter Brinley and all those who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents; Arlo M. Mowrey and Lois C. Mowrey; uncles Raymond, Harvey and aunt Grace; grandparents Odessa W. Mowrey and James C. Mowrey.

In lieu of calling hours or a funeral service as per Jim's wishes,  there will be A Celebration of Life reception hosted in his honor late spring for friends and family. Details to follow. If you would like more information please share your contact with (funeral home).

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wooster Township Fire Department, New Pittsburg Fire Department, Ohio Hospice, and The Oak Chapel Church.

Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville assisted the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.fickesfuneralhome.com.

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