Energy of Life: Saying Farewell to Denisonians and our Beloved Jane

So many farewells, taking the time for calling out on the blog these beautiful lives, people, energies. It does feel heaven opens up and energy in the universe allows for people to pass and we've had a few. A few to name, remember, celebrate, and thank for being in our life on Newark-Granville Road. 

William Osborne-WO was infamous, WO was beloved, WO's legacy shines bright in June when the Denison Singers Reunion happens. There is a scholarship, a library/reading/meeting room in Eisner, a restored organ in Swasey, and so many memories for so many Denisonians including this author. I was a music major at Denison not becuase of skill or talent, just interest in the environment, the desire to learn. I took Music Around the World and was part of the Concert Choir under his leadership. Thank you WO for being you and being what Jeffrey Masten stated:  "an extraordinary force for the arts at Denison during his tenure from 1961-2003 and kept on giving materially back to the college, through scholarships for performing-arts students and the restoration of the chapel organ, not to mention the mostly-annual reunion concerts with his devoted Denison Singers family."FB post JM. I'll share the obituary when it is available, plans for a memorial in June during Singers Reunion!

Jack Kirby- Denison professor. One class, all I took was one class and it was special. It was quintessential liberal arts- discussing, learning, reacting to history through literature. I know the stories of so many that are so grateful for his support and the communities he created. He was a beloved Denisonian. His energy, commitment and care mattered and made a difference.   https://www.newarkadvocate.com/obituaries/pwoo1327256 

Joanne Bartlett: Beautiful alumna: https://alumni.denison.edu/citations/joanne-passano-bartlett/ https://www.mwfuneralhome.com/obituaries/joanne-bartlett-2/#!/TributeWall I didn't know Joanne, but know many who did and valued all she did and will continue to do for education. Rest in peace, good job faithful servant- servant leadership exemptlified. DenisonGrateful for you.

Marcia Whythes Denison Grandmother: I didn't interact much with Marica but each time she left an impression and delighted me. She raised a lovely family and leaves a legacy. I love the line in this article, she knew a few things about making a difference: https://www.punahou.edu/donor-stories-detail?pk=1114700 Thinking of this special Denison family in this time of transition.

 

And the one that will leave a void for so many in our lives on Newark-Granville Road, 

Jane Heller Beloved Denisonian, Granvillian, Artist and so much more:

https://alumni.denison.edu/citations/jane-carstensen-heller/  https://www.mcpeekhoekstra.com/obituaries/jane-heller  I love the line in the obituary that says- "Jane lived life in color" it was true! The Northern Lights last week in Ohio- for our dear Jane, so aprapros they were here when she took this journey.

It probably isn't appropriate for me to have a favorite Denisonian, a favorite alum- but Jane was one of mine. Our paths crossed as Denisonians over the decades, figure eights intersecting with reunions, service/volunteer boards and then on Newark-Granville Road. When I was working at Denison she was the Annual Fund Grandparent Chair- how amazing is that! At the Works she was the founder of the art gallery with Marcia and I had the honor to support her work curating and showing. She was a friend to all and close to my friends and we benefited from dinners, drinks and many gatherings together. Her daughter, a key partner in my work at The Works! My day was made when I was with Jane. She inspires and inspired me, her legacy is profound and concrete, colorful and joyful.

 When the word spread of her passing, a friend group started sharing art, so I share one of our Jane Heller's and photos that make me smile, including a beloved picture of us, captured at a Reunion.Her energy was color, but more than that it was all the colors- warmth, cheer, interest, love, life, light, moods, depth. Jane you made the world beautiful, you made us all happy and we felt your love. You are and were beautiful, thank you for all you did for so many and did it with spunk, color and love.

 

 

COLOR

Fall colors are beautiful. It is mid November and I'm reminded how much I love the gift of color the trees provide. Yes, the foliage in the canapy, but what always delights me and deserves to be captured here, is the color on the ground!  The yellow Ginko trees are spectacular. Newark-Granville Road has a few properties that showcase this extremely well.   And with a quick search I find this poem that also reminds me the release of all leaves at once magnifies the impact- it truly is an explosion of color!

The Consent by Howard Nemerov:  https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/53817/the-consent

Sunrise on the way home from morning yoga, thank you Daylight Savings time, draws the eye to yellows, reds,and pinks The view out the front windows as I type is the same sunlight casting with a hint of pink you may find in the tulle of a dance recital. It is warm and happy, delicate yet cheery.  It is fleeting, as during edit time it has retreated and gone.

I think of Spring when the blossoms from crabapples and others I don't know charm us with all shades of pink and white. I'm enchanted when they spill onto pavements and lawns, creating a carpet of color. 

Being surrounded by color is a key component in my life on Newark-Granville Road. Our home has lots of color- art, furniture, rugs...even the indoor plants with every shade of green! Nature is an artist, this is the time of year I love the greens of grass with the frost, blues of dawn and dusk.  Our pumpkins for fall decor- inside and out, fresh and glass, and fabric reflect these same preferences of many colors! Not just orange- but melon, salmon, tangerine and then the whites, grays, blues, greens.....it makes me happy!

November is the month of gratitude. I love summer and hold on to it, allowing it to stretch well beyond the solstice, this year's temps making it easy to do so.  I'm here now in full Fall, embracing its gifts and saying thank you for the hues that surround, inspire, comfort, captivate and truly gratify.

Important and Fun Weekend! Go Big Red...join us on the Hill this Saturday 10/25 2pm

Denison Friends, Local Friends- We had fun here:

 

Ross Kirk in the sweatshirt given to him in 1989 when he visited, he played for DU! With new Beer Society President, Luke!

We're the blue blankets!!

Cheers and thanks for joining the fun!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When: Saturday, October, 25th 2 pm

Where: The Hill, watching football- Denison v DePauw Game time 3 pm

What: Better than tailgating, watching the game on the Sigma Chi hill – ‘80s style

Where: See picture- we'll be on this hill with blankets, bevies and snacks!

Parking: Suggested parking on the West Loop (old Fraternity Row) and walking over.

Questions: Text us 614 507 0751 Susan or Joe: 614 397 4907 

MORE SOON on the exciting Denison Campaign Launch, it was a very special weekend in our life on Newark-Granville Road!

Thankful for the Life of James Alden Leithauser 1937-2025

James Alden Leithauser   (click on link for obit)

A beautiful man and life.  A life that made a difference to family, community, church, and children. A life of service and caring and laughter.  This is how I will remember my father-in-law. As we reflect on how he cared, we think of breakfast and meals. Napkin-wrapped English muffins, fruit salad, fruit and veggie platters, HAM - oh the hams. When Joe took me home to meet his parents, not just one roast but two were prepared.  He always shared a perspective or joke that guaranteed a smile or laugh. He cared that he brought that smile and would look and wait for it.

Last fall, we thought we'd be saying goodbye as Jim's kidneys and heart were thinking it was time to be done. It was not the time. That said, Jim's dementia and weakening health kept him from engaging and provided frustration for many including Jim. This was unfortunate. So many dear people helped care for him, kept him smiling with great-grandchildren visits, Cokes, outings, and patience and love. We're so grateful to all of those people.  Last weekend his body did finally say, enough and he passed peacefully with the support of Hospice, and as you'll read in the obit, Nadine and Alicia were by his side.

I hope you'll read the obituary that outlines his service to the fire department, Little League, church. I always admired Jim and Nadine and their support of the community.  We also liked the snacks and popcorn that made their way to our house!  Alicia reminded us of his Donald Duck voice, and I'm so grateful his great-grandchildren smiled and giggled thanks to Jim.

He kept a beautiful yard, made a baseball diamond for his sons, and simply made the world a better place. His corner of the world in Sherwood was a delight to visit as a daughter-in-law, especially with small children.  I love his son Joe Leithauser and love how he modeled care, partnership, love, and laughter. We always say Joe is the funniest Leithauser, I would like to amend this statement- it was Jim.

Life on Newark-Granville Road is so grateful for Jim's life and the legacy he made while here and the legacy that remains with his passing.

So many have asked what we need...we're okay- thank you!  Yes, it is hard to say farewell and now don’t have Jim in our lives. And at the same time we're grateful he is not in the state he was, it was time.  We're looking forward to gathering to honor and remember him. In place of flowers or looking for a way to support/honor Jim's life, Joe and I encourage you to make a gift to your local fire department or little league!

As I type this and think of ways to honor Jim, it is simple- doing something kind, make someone smile or laugh...thank goodness he did that for us.

 Like many posts, there will be more- photos, relfections, memories...but for now these make me smile and capture Jim's essence and legacy!

 

Family and friends did a wonderful job sharing more photos and memories it has been a comforting few weeks

10/20- Yesterday at the Delaware Township Fire Department- see their post below.  We're grateful to Cupcake for the leadership with the food and the whole department for the event.  

Delaware Township Fire Department is deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of our own, but also to celebrate the life of our brother, Fire Fighter James “Jim” Alden Leithauser. He was more than just a firefighter; he was a mentor, a protector, our favorite chef, and a pillar of our community.

For 35 years, he answered the call with courage and a selfless commitment to the safety and well-being of others before officially retiring from the department in 2022. He was a part of a family that understood the weight of a duty that is often 24/7, 365 days a year, which meant countless sleepless nights and I would say missed meals but Jim and his wife Nadine always made sure we had a meal ready for us at the station when we returned to service from a long night on a structure fire. Jim Leithauser always placed the needs of others above his own, and this is a legacy we should all remember and embrace.

Jim retired from active firefighting in 2009 but continued supporting the fire department by serving as the association’s treasurer. He played a significant role in managing kitchen operations, ensuring meals were provided at every meeting through his expertise as Chef Leithauser. For pancake breakfasts, Jim maintained a comprehensive supplies list that remains in use today.

His passing leaves a gap in our department, in our community, and in our hearts. We will miss his helping hand, his guidance, his laughter, his cricket sounds, and his presence at the station. But while he may be gone, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.

Let us honor his memory by continuing to serve our community; by embodying the courage and dedication he so profoundly demonstrated throughout his life.

A celebration of Jim's life, open to all friends and family, will be held on October 19, 2025, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Delaware Township Fire House.

James Leithauser, we thank you. You've answered your last alarm. We'll take it from here. Rest in peace, brother. You will be missed.

https://www.facebook.com/DTFD1200

 

The gun salute from the VFW was very moving.  Having Caiden caring and playing with Alden, Alden smiling, pushing toys and then asleep in his grandmothers arms also added an element that was comforting. It was a special day and we're grateful for those that could attend, the messages and cards, we felt so supported as we navigate this time.

 

Nadine with her siblings

 

 

 

 

 

I want to make sure I share two important memories to this post about Jim!

First our wedding...I left my purse with our room key.  We had already driven off in the convertible (the top would not go down so I was annoyed) but we got off, happy. Then oh darn- we needed the purse- Joe circled back...leaving me in the car.  Well that is its own story and amazing laugh with the buddies trying to drive off with me...but Joe came back and his Dad was so happy to see him.  Joe's Dad said oh good- this is the lesson I forgot to tell you about marriage...they always leave their purse- always. It's your job- you have to remember the purse.  I can hear him saying it, his voice, his smile....I think I have a photo of that but I wasn't there, maybe someone else took the picture, maybe my mind did...oh yay Jim for Jim and sharing little bits like that that, that matter.

The other memory CASH EXPLOSION 2014.....At Easter we had Cash Explosion scratch tickets. Joe said when we were choosing the type- get the Cash Explosion ones, Dad loves that show. At the end of the afternoon Jim explained Joés ticket allowed him to write his name on the back of one, and send it in to be a contestant.  Joe said no but Jim should.  Well we all forgot about it.  Then a friend calls one Sunday and says they were watching the show and Joe's name had been picked for a future show.  What?  Jim had submitted Joe's name.  Fast Forward Joe arranges for Jim to go in his place! They ended up in Hillard at a hotel with a pool, fun day out for Alicia and to meet others.  Then those of us that could gathered to watch Jim on the show. It was a day of laughs, stress, family and memories. It was a fun way to honor and celebrate Jim.  As we did yesterday.  We'll continue to keep him close in our hearts and unite with the grandkids as family in December. We truly never leave our loved ones or let them leave us, gatherings are important and yesterday was an important and special day in our life on Newark-Granville Road with Jim as the focus.

2014 Cash Explosion Day!

Sign Time VOTING time- Fall 2025

Our house on Newark-Granville Road has a nice corner.  For years during election time people ask us to place a sign in our yard.  Joe and I have created frameworks for our decision on who/what sign appears here (you can read past blog posts about it).  

Here is this year's approach!

If we have a relationship- meaning we know you, you've attended Derby party, we have conversations, we can discuss issues, we've served together, etc...and you are running for office, we're grateful you are willing to run and serve...we'll say yes to the sign.  

Issues- similar- if the person advocating for the tax levy knows us, has a relationship with us, we'll say yes to the sign.

What the sign doesn't mean- this is the way this house is voting.  (Yes, reality is some times we vote differently.)  It would be interesting to poll people on what a sign in a yard means to them. Should one assume it is how a person votes? An important life lesson- never assume!

What does sign placement in our yard mean: let's talk! Let's talk about the candidate we know and why we did say yes to a sign. Let us tell you about the conversations had with Len Hubert at community events for YEARS, serving with William Hoekstra on a Board, debates with Ben Barton and his care during our Derby parties. Matthew George is a fair and impartial judge a known entity seeking reelection. Joe values Kim's service so much on CURRENT COUNCIL and Diane Marshall's thoughtful work and time to understand the important impact she can have for our village.  Stephanie Mollica's commitment to Mental Health & Recovery for Licking and Knox counties and the renewal levy is inspiring.

UPDATE- Melanie Kohlheim is not doing signs, thank you Melanie for running for Granville School Board!

 And most of all our Lucy...she has the message for us all..VOTE..but really know the issues, know the candidates...don't assume...say thank you to those willing to serve and put themselves in this position!

Our son Peter was asked by a friend how we vote, his answer which we love was "It's about the person, not the party". Life on Newark-Granville Road is Grateful for our local public servants and those that support them (staff), volunteers, donors and our citizens that engage and are active as it makes Life on Newark-Granville Road and beyond beautiful and safe. 

PS- https://www.boe.ohio.gov/licking/  get info here- Early Voting starts Oct 7th!  Find sample ballots too! 

 

Sharing Good Things...Sales...Invest..Ask!

 I found my career path early, but I didn't know it.  When people ask how long I've been in my role, sometimes I say- I've been raising money for Denison since my senior year...Class gift for 1990! I kept volunteering and then turned it into a full time role with focus on philanthropy directly for Denison in 2015. I love the fact that my first role was loaned executive for the United Way of Southeast Michigan in 1990..Federal Mogul knew I was  fundraiser before I did!  I've never stopped asking...

This week it is the CABI ask...amazing clothes, presented in a home or with personal consultant.  Last night's show was fun! The show prior to that at Katy's was a hoot and I can't wait for future friends shows. I have fond memories at Vicki's and Sue's...Anne's...making memories.  We were reflecting last night on my Just Ducky shows and the friends that met there!!

Update- my CABI show will close tomorrow- 9/17- if you want assistance/to order- contact Roanne Gotttshalk at 740 404 9718 rgotts1752@gmail.com  She is AWESOME!

No pressure- just me sharing what works for me and others..helping another woman at work too!

And next up to sell/offer/ask....PEO NUT SALE 2025!

Promoting Women's Education through Scholarships and Grants- PEO is a women's philanthropic organization and I'm a proud but not very active member of Chapter AB in Granville.  Mom and Myra inspired me and I'm grateful to Jan, Leda and others that keep me connected!  A great fundraiser for us is offering the amazing KREMA nut and mixes....I'm happy to send you the order form if you are interested!! They do make great gifts.  Thanks for thinking about it!

Orders due Oct 9th!

And while I'm at it...why not...Denison Ways to Give!  Every dollar and donor matters! Denison has a big beautiful campus. Denison shapes amazing lives and supports students, employees, alums and the community in amazing ways and we count on philanthropy...thanks for considering investing!  Want to know more, let's talk, have coffee. I'd love to share more about the impact each gift makes to our students and beyond.

So much good on Newark-Granville Road to share...

Heads-up- Correct Email and Transitions in the E/Cyber world....in LONGR!

 I'm trying to move this Blogger Account for Blog updates to a different email.

I'm having difficulities with an old email that I don't use- the roadrunner email.  íf you are communicating me via roadrunner it is being or has been forwarded to gmail.  Please call me, find me, contact me, I like and value our commuication.  Some times we don't know what we are not receiving.

This blog site may transition...stay tuned via personal interaction. THAK YOU for reading.

Update- I'm able to now use gmail account to access this blogger account...fingers crossed I've made things smoother in my cyber life on Newark-Granville Road!  Thanks for helping with the email address use!