James T. McEachen

James Theodore McEachen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 17, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. At 77, Jim faced his final challenge with the same resilience and grace that defined his life.

Born and raised in Battle Creek, Michigan, Jim graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1965 before earning his degree from Michigan Technological University in Houghton, MI, in 1969. His career took him across the country, with significant roles at XYCOM in Saline, MI, Midbrook Products in Jackson, MI, and, most notably, Ransohoff/Cleaning Technologies Group in Cincinnati, OH.

Jim’s leadership at Cleaning Technologies, where he served as CEO and President, led to the company’s pivotal growth and evolution, including its successful sale in 2006. He skillfully navigated the challenges of the 2008-2009 recession and was as comfortable on the factory floor as he was in the boardroom. After retiring in 2013, he continued to share his expertise as a consultant until 2019.

Jim’s passion for travel took him across Europe and China, blending his love for exploration with professional and personal fulfillment. He was a mentor and confidant, known for his keen intellect, generosity, and deep appreciation for history and current events. He volunteered at a senior center, engaging in discussions that made others feel valued and heard, always bringing treats and staying as long as someone wanted to talk.

A devoted sports fan, Jim’s loyalty stretched from his Michigan roots with the Detroit teams to his adopted hometown’s Cincinnati Bengals and Reds. He was also a gifted cook, leaving behind cherished recipes that will forever connect his loved ones to the warmth of his kitchen.

Above all, Jim’s greatest joy was his family. His love was fierce, unwavering, and unconditional. Every moment with them was treasured, and he built his life around time spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. His presence was a constant source of encouragement, wisdom, and laughter.

In 2020, Jim was diagnosed with a rare form of autoimmune encephalitis, a journey that led him to Liberty Place Memory Care in early 2022. There, he and his family found a new kind of family—compassionate caregivers, fellow residents, and their loved ones—who turned a difficult path into one filled with warmth, joy, and shared humanity.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 38 years, Dianne (Weibel); his children, Benjamin (CA), Cara (MI), and Samantha (OH); his beloved grandchildren, Theodore and Madeline; his brother Robert (Judi) and their children, Scott and Katie; and a large extended family who adored him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elwin McEachen and Lenore (Thurow) McEachen.

Jim lived every day with purpose, kindness, and a deep appreciation for the people around him. He was, and always will be, deeply loved.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for all friends and family, details will be shared on this link soon.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to …

Alzheimer’s Association: https://ac.alz.org

Tunnels To Towers: https://t2t.org