Jim was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Robert and Gladys (Cappel) Totten on May 2, 1961. He was the devoted husband of 42 years of Cindy (Hempel) Totten and the loving father of two daughters, Abbey and Lindsey, and future father-in-law to Hannah Abel. Jim was a loyal brother to Guy (Cyndi) Totten and Jeff (Patty) Totten, a much beloved brother-in-law to Gary (Trish) Hempel, Dave (Michelle) Hempel, Chris (Reneé) Hempel, and Amanda (Melissa) Chavez, son-in-law to Gary and the late Barb Hempel, and a caring uncle and great-uncle to many. He is also survived by his loving guardians, Dan and Sharon Totten, who raised him and his brothers after the death of their parents when they were young. A graduate of North College Hill High School and Diamond Oaks Technical School, Jim dedicated 47 years to a career in fire and security alarms; first at American Alarm with his brother Jeff, which was later acquired by Honeywell, where he spent the majority of his career. In recent years he worked at GE Aviation, from which he retired in February of this year. Outside of work, Jim was a talented carpenter. He enjoyed collecting antiques, traveling, kayaking, spoiling grandpups Frankie and Millie, and "moving things around" in his garage. He was well known for being able to fix anything, from cars to Barbie doll arms to renovating his daughter's house. His neighbors, family and friends all knew if anyone needed a tool, they could count on Jim to have it. Jim was kindhearted, steadfast, and loyal. He deeply valued his family's traditions and always made the people around him feel celebrated and loved -- no matter the occasion. He never hesitated to help others and was known for his sense of humor and love of puns, his creativity, and above all, unwavering devotion to those he loved. His sudden passing leaves a hole in so many hearts that nothing will ever fill, but so many wonderful memories will forever be cherished his family and friends.

"How lucky we are to have someone who makes saying goodbye so hard." —A. A. Milne

A memorial gathering will take place at Paul R Young Funeral Home, 7345 Hamilton Ave. Mt. Healthy, Ohio 45231 on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 10:00am-12:00pm.  Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.paulyoungfuneralhome.com