James "Jim" Korenowsky's Obituary
James “Jim” Korenowsky Sr., beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed
away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy defined by love, adventure, dedication, and a deep
passion for life.
Jim was the cherished husband of the late Shirlee Korenowsky (née Krutil), with whom he
shared a deep and enduring love. He is survived by his loving children, Rebekah Kathryn
Korenowsky Woods and James “Jimmy” Korenowsky Jr., who were the pride and joy of his
life.
Jim was a beloved brother to John Korenowsky (Kathy), Mary Kay Goddard, and Robert
“Bobby” Korenowsky. He is preceded in death by his father Andrew Korenowsky, mother
Kathryn Randazzo (née Wisnieski), sister Patricia “Patti” Wilkin, and her late husband Jim
Wilkin. He had a large extended family, in which he was a beloved cousin, in-law, and a
proud uncle to his many nieces and nephews.
Born and raised in Independence, Ohio, Jim was a proud graduate of Independence High
School, where he left a lasting mark as an athlete. A Hall of Fame inductee in football,
basketball, and track, his name remains etched in the school’s rich sports history. He
continued his education at Bowling Green State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude in International Studies. Never one to do things halfway, Jim also played football, rugby, and
lacrosse during his college years, embracing every challenge with grit and spirit.
After college, Jim set out to explore the world on his own terms, hitchhiking and
train-hopping across the United States. Eventually, he returned to Ohio and planted roots in
the Brooklyn Heights/Independence area, where he built and operated his own landscaping
company “Korny’s Landscaping” for over 40 years. A fixture in the local community, he also
refereed basketball games throughout Cuyahoga County for four decades, earning the
respect and admiration of his peers, athletes, coaches, and fans alike. He also spent many
years playing for the London Pickle Works softball team, racking up many championship
wins, making life-long friendships and eventually meeting his wife Shirlee.
Jim was a lifelong Cleveland sports fan, always cheering on his teams with unwavering
loyalty. He had a deep love for nature, wildlife, and plants and took great pride in caring for
his yard and garden.
Jim will be remembered for his generous heart, quick wit, adventurous spirit, and the
profound impact he had on those lucky enough to know him. Whether you knew him as a
husband, father, brother, uncle, teammate, referee, or friend, Jim’s warmth and strength left a
lasting impression. His stories, laughter, and unwavering love for life will be missed dearly,
but never forgotten.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Vodrazka Funeral Home in Independence on
Saturday, August 2nd, 1-5pm with a reception to follow that evening, more details TBD. In
lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Cornerstone of Hope or a local
wildlife or nature preservation organization in his honor.
What’s your fondest memory of James "Jim"?
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