James Michael Ignaut

James M. Ignaut (“Jim”), 72, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Jim will be remembered for his kindness, gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and the deep love he had for his family.

Jim was born in 1953 in Westlake, Ohio, to Jim and Peg Ignaut. He was the second of five children and the only son, growing up alongside his four sisters, Kathleen, Carol, Colleen, and Christine, all of whom still reside in the Cleveland area.

Jim graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology in 1975 and a master’s degree in Psychological Counseling in 1976. During his junior and senior years, he proudly served as a Notre Dame cheerleader, traveling across the country supporting Fighting Irish football. Family and friends often loved hearing stories of his ability to perform back handsprings the entire length of a football field.

Following graduation, Jim worked as a guidance director and wrestling coach at Marian High School. It was at a Marian football game that he met the love of his life, Debbie, who was home from college for the weekend. They fell in love almost instantly. In 1978, Jim moved to Fort Wayne while Debbie completed nursing school, working as a juvenile probation officer. Jim and Debbie were married on October 28, 1978, beginning a beautiful marriage that would span 47 years.

In 1979, the couple moved to Cleveland, where Jim worked as an adult probation officer specializing in substance abuse-related cases. He later joined the Cleveland Clinic in its drug and alcohol treatment program, dedicating himself to helping individuals struggling with addiction.

In 1996, Jim and Debbie relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where Jim joined Indiana University to work on the landmark Diabetes Prevention Program clinical trial, managing the exercise component of the study. During his time at IU, he earned a second master’s degree in Public Health. Jim later continued his career in public health with Marion County and ultimately with the State of Indiana, where he served as a field epidemiologist until retiring in 2019.

Jim’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie; his children Hillary, Jimmy, and Christopher; and their spouses and children. Hillary and her husband Jason live in Nolensville, Tennessee, with their sons Brennan and Keenan. Jimmy and his wife Harmony live in Greenwood, Indiana, with their sons James, Owen, Austin, and Maddox. Christopher and his wife Amanda live in Greenville, South Carolina, with their children Mya and Liam.

Jim was adored by his family and especially cherished his role as “Bapa,” the grandfather name lovingly given to him by his first-born grandson, James. His seven grandsons and granddaughter brought him endless pride and happiness.

Jim was truly the rock of his family — steady, compassionate, humble, and endlessly supportive. He put family first in everything he did and leaves behind a legacy of love, service, strength, and kindness that will continue to guide those who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Memorial contributions may be made to the University of Notre Dame. Gifts may be made online at giving.nd.edu, by phone at 574-631-5150 or by mail: University of Notre Dame, Department of Development, 1100 Grace Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 10 a.m. to 12 Noon, in the Narthex at Saints Francis & Clare Catholic Church, 5901 Olive Branch Road, Greenwood.  The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 Noon.  Jim will be inurned in the Resurrection Garden, immediately following Mass.

O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.  www.ORileyBranson.com