James E. Volkert

James "Jim" E. Volkert of Delaware, formerly of Hicksville, was born on February 20, 1941 to Opal (Applegate) and Guy Volkert in Hicksville, OH. He passed away on July 15, 2024 at Willow Brook Christian Home in Columbus, OH. He graduated from Hicksville High School in 1959, received an Agricultural Short Course degree from Michigan State, and attended classes at The Ohio State University.

From an early age, he developed his passion for agriculture, starting with potatoes and pigs, culminating with his ultimate lifelong passion of being around horses. He spent many years raising, racing, and selling feed to many successful horse owners throughout the Midwest. Among them were the Budweiser Clydesdales and the Mari Hulman George Horse Farms.

Another passion in his life was music from an early age. He was a John Philips Sousa winner in high school, was very active in church choir groups, the Northwesternaires Barbershop Chorus, and ultimately played the piano throughout his entire lifetime.

His community involvement included Rotary, Jaycees, and North Western Electric Cooperative Board of Directors.

Most important was his involvement with his family and friends. Making woodworking projects and gardening were another passion of his. He wanted everyone to be included in his projects. His passion for Ohio State sports and auto racing (NASCAR and the Indy 500) was very evident.

He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Donna (Leibold) Volkert. His son Jeff (Roseann), daughter Melissa, grandsons Cameron Volkert, Mike Battershell, and Adam (Carly) Battershell. He is also survived by his sister, Ella Jane Stuckey (Dennis) and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Robert Volkert, and sister-in-law Marlene Volkert.

Services for Jim will be on Friday, July 19, 2024, at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 E. Shrock Rd., Westerville, OH. Calling at 10:30 am, service at 11:00 am. There will be a celebration of life following the service at Dandelion Farm, 2562 Braumiller Rd., Delaware, OH 43015 from 1:00-4:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim's memory to the Humane Society of Delaware County or the Huber Opera House and Civic Center in Hicksville, OH.