JAMES R. KRAYNAK (aka “Jim”, “JR”, “JK”,”Ron” or “Ronnie Honey”) passed away on June 16, 2026. He will be greatly missed by his wife Audrey, daughters Erin (Jeff) Fromwiller, Kara (Michael) Sygula and grandchildren Evan (Jordan), Alayna, and Cade Fromwiller, Madison and Emma Sygula. Jim’s presence will also be missed by the many cousins that comprise his and Audrey’s extended family. His five granddogs, Molly, Baker, Piper, Reggie and Axel, will miss the treats and affection that he provided during his visits. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Mary (Spisak) Kraynak and his sister Susan as well as his dog Monte.

Jim graduated from John Adams High School in Cleveland, Ohio where he met his wife and played on the varsity football team. He earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Bowling Green State University (BGSU), the latter in Educational Administration. He began his professional career teaching English and coaching football at Otsego High School and ended his career teaching English at several high schools in the Akron System. Most of his professional career, however, was spent in college admissions, initially in the admissions’ offices of Urbana College and BGSU. He also served as Director of Admissions at Kent State, Youngstown State and Purdue Universities. For many summers, he could be found parking cars at Blossom Music Center or driving a tram.

Jim is described by all who knew him as kind, warm, good natured, good humored, and humble. Jim was a staunch Browns fan. He provided his family many cherished memories from vacations at Disney World. He also could be found quietly supporting his daughters’ sporting and extracurricular endeavors. He continued that tradition with his grandchildren. He enjoyed attending T-ball, Cooperstown Dreams Tournaments and varsity baseball/football games for his grandsons. He also thoroughly enjoyed supporting his granddaughters by attending ice skating competitions, soccer and volleyball matches..He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ronald McDonald House https://www.rmhcneo.org/ways-to-give/donate/ or a favorite charity of your choice.

Friends May Call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 W. AURORA RD. (OHIO RTE.82) SAGAMORE HILLS, where a Celebration of James’ life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026. MEMORIAL VISITATION 10 A.M. UNTIL TIME OF SERVICE AT 12 NOON.