Jacob Nicholas Ransom, a 29-year-old journeyman with Pipefitters Local 50 and a respected lead superintendent at the Lima Refinery, died suddenly on December 31, 2025, in Toledo, Ohio. His passing stunned his family, coworkers, and the wider community that knew him for his big heart and tireless spirit.
Born on February 22, 1996, Jacob grew up in Toledo surrounded by family and friends who quickly saw his strong work ethic and warm personality. He graduated from Saint John Jesuit High School, where he played sports and built early bonds that lasted a lifetime.
Jacob found his calling in the trades and became a journeyman with Pipefitters Local 50, a union known across northwest Ohio for skilled professionals. Through dedication and leadership, he rose to become Lead Superintendent at Graham Industrial Services working at the Lima Refinery. Coworkers remember him as a reliable leader who pushed for excellence while always lifting others up.
Outside of work, Jacob was a larger-than-life presence. Friends called him the “Gentle Giant,” “Big Sexy,” or simply “Ransom” — nicknames that spoke to both his size and the warmth of his character. He loved golf, skiing, and creating memories on trips with friends, including one planned to Tahoe that he sadly never got to take.
Sports stayed close to his heart long after school. He played basketball with his Our Lady of Perpetual Help CYO team into adulthood and had been a devoted lacrosse player in high school. His competitive spirit was always matched by his kindness.
Jacob’s journey wasn’t without struggle. He faced challenges with alcohol over the years, but his determination to grow and support others facing similar issues led him to become a source of encouragement and strength for many. His family has expressed deep gratitude for the support he received from Midwest Rehab Facility during that journey.
He is survived by his loving mother, Debra Thanasiu, his siblings Nicholas Thanasiu, Nancy Ransom, and Abby Thanasiu, his grandfather Albert Grindle, and his fiancée Claire Denecker, whom he adored. Extended family and many lifelong friends also mourn him deeply.
Family and friends will gather to honor his life at a visitation on January 12 at Coyle Funeral Home in Toledo, followed by a funeral mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on January 13. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to The Open Door in Toledo — a cause that aligns with his generous spirit and commitment to helping others.
