James L. Wirtanen, age 59 a resident of Madison, Ohio passed away Friday, October 5, 2007 Lake West Hospital in Willoughby, Ohio, after a long battle with kidney disease.

Born September 24, 1948 in Cleveland to Hilda (Sjo) & Toivo Wirtanen.

Married Brenda (Wilson) in Mentor, Ohio on September 12, 1970.

He worked at Pick & Pay Supermarket. Also worked in Purchasing at NEO Hospital and Visiting Nurse Association.

A 1966 graduate of Mentor High School, he also graduated from Lakeland Community College and attended Ohio State for two years. He was an antique seller and collector. For many years he had his own auction house in the Chapeldale Plaza on Hubbard Road. He enjoyed flea markets, fishing, camping and traveling. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a past member of the Madison Kiwanis Club, Madison YMCA Board of Directors, and the Madison High School Booster Club.

He is survived by his Wife Brenda of Madison; Son Chris Wirtanen of Madison; Daughter Lindsay Wirtanen-Dudas of Madison; 4 Grandchildren Dylan, Brandon, Gracelyn & Taylor; Several Nieces, Nephews & Cousins and Many Friends.

He was preceded in death by his Parents Hilda & Toivo Wirtanen; Brother David Wirtanen; Sisters Carol McCoy & Joyce Parker.

Friends will be received 2-4 and 7-9, Monday, October 8th , at The Behm Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26 River Street, Madison, Ohio.

Funeral Service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 9th , at The Behm Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26 River Street, Madison, Ohio.

Rev. Stephen Broache of Central Congregational Church, Madison, will be officiating.

Final Resting Place will be at Fairview Cemetery in Madison.

Contributions may be made to the family.