Mayor Ginther's father dies after battling cancer

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther's father, Jeffrey Ginther, died early Monday after a lengthy battle with cancer, the mayor's office announced in a statement.

He was 74.

“To most, my father was a quiet man, a man of few words,” Mayor Ginther said in the written statement. “But in that calmness was strength. He was the perfect balance to my mother’s enthusiasm and creativity and championed her career throughout their 51-year marriage.

"Together, they were committed to a lifetime of service by fostering 47 children over 30 years.

"My Dad was one of the best listeners I have ever met. I try every day to incorporate his compassion and fairness to the way I lead. He was a decorated Vietnam War veteran, awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. No one cared more deeply for his family than my father.

"And while our hearts are broken, he is home with the love of his life now. We will find solace in that. Our family appreciates everyone’s thoughts and prayers and asks for privacy during this extremely difficult time.”

The mayor's mother, Norma Ginther, died in July 2019. She was a social worker who, along with her attorney-husband had raised four children in Clintonville, while also hosting foster children, sometimes four at a time.

Mayor Ginther has said the experience of growing up with foster children had a profound impact on his life and was a reason he decided to go into public service.

The family plans to hold a private celebration of life for Jeffrey Ginther at a later date.

wbush@gannett.com

@ReporterBush