James Kormanik

James (Jimmy) Joseph Kormanik born April 19th 1959 in Akron Ohio lost his battle with cancer January 2nd 2026 leaving behind a life deeply rooted in love, passion for music, and devotion to others.

Jimmy was a man who showed up- without hesitation and always with heart. He was funny, goofy and endlessly warm.

He leaves behind his beloved partner, Michelle Woodside, and her parents, Frank and Carol, who adored him and welcomed him fully as family. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Brittany and April; his brother, Fred Kormanik (Virginia); his sisters, Alice Chakonas (Tommy), Teresa Kormanik, and Jayne Kormanik; many cherished nieces and nephews; and his close-knit music community, who knew him not only as a remarkable musician but as a true friend.

Jimmy's greatest joy was his grandson, Tommy, whom he lovingly raised and had custody of. At just five years old, Tommy was the center of Jimmy's world. Their bond was deep, constant, and filled with love-one that defined Jimmy's days and spoke volumes about the kind of man he was.

He was preceded in death by his father, Fred Kormanik; his mother, Jayne Kormanik; his brothers, Leo Kormanik (Ella) and Robert Kormanik (Maureen) ; and his beloved dog, Salty, who was never far from his side and held a special place in his heart.

Music was Jimmy's passion and his gift. A profoundly talented harmonica player, he was widely regarded as the best in the local music scene. Yet no matter how respected his talent, Jimmy always balanced his love for music equally with his love for family and friends. He never sought attention-he simply shared what he had, whether it was a song, a laugh, or his time.

Jimmy will be remembered for his kindness, his reliability, his humor, and his unwavering presence. His legacy lives on in the music he played, the people he helped, the love he gave so freely, and the little boy who knew him simply as Papa.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 1PM at Hummel Funeral Home (FAIRLAWN), 2800 West Market Street Fairlawn, OH 44333.