Michael S. Ozanich 1934-2025

He was born Aug. 24, 1934, the son of the late George John Ozanich and Rosa Barbara Fetchko Ozanich. He was born in his parents’ home in Newton Falls and graduated from Newton Falls High School in the Class of 1952.

Mike worked as a boilermaker at Republic Steel Corporation in Niles for 33 years until his retirement in 1991. He was known by everyone as a hard worker, often working several jobs at a time to take care of his family. He could build and fix anything and was a highly creative fabricator. People often marveled at his ability to imagine and then design systems, decks, frames and cabinets.

Mike married the one and only love of his life, Janice R. Tichenor, on July 2, 1955, at Newton Falls First Church of God. They recently celebrated their 70th anniversary.

He was a 50-year member of Newton Falls Masonic Lodge 462 and a 32nd degree Mason. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, George and Rosa Ozanich; brothers, John, Pete and Louis Ozanich; and sisters, Anne Geedy Ozanich and Mary Harkelroad Ozanich.

Mike is survived by his wife, Janice R. Ozanich of Newton Falls; three sons, Terry Ozanich of Niles, Steve Ozanich of Howland and John Ozanich of Hudson; four grandchildren, Matthew, Kelsey, TJ, and Nicholas; and five great-grandchildren, McKenna, Cashel, Nova, Calvin and Christopher.

His main focus in life was taking care of his family. The name Mike is associated with strength, leadership and humility; he certainly carried these traits, and he always put others first and himself last. Mike will be deeply missed forever.

Cremation has taken place. Private services will be held for close family members.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 E. Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444, 330-872-5440. Family and friends may view his obituary online or to send condolences, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com.

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