Toft Funeral Home and Crematory
2001 Columbus Ave
Sandusky, OH 44870
Phone: 419-625-8816
Website: http://www.toftfh.com
View All Obituaries from Toft Funeral Home and Crematory
Jules Bahnsen, 67, a native of Sandusky, died from post-surgery complications on May 23, 2022 near his home in Nashville, TN.
Jules, an alumnus of Sandusky High School class of 1974, spent much of his time in the Sandusky City Parks with his father and fishing. A veteran of the Vietnam War, Jules enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1974. A sports fanatic, Jules was on a traveling baseball team in the service and continued his love of the game once out of the service, umpiring for several years at Kiwanis Park. Jules worked for General Motors for 30 years between New Departure in Sandusky and the Saturn Plant in Spring Hill, TN. He retired in 2006.
Jules had a passion for wood working and all Ohio sports teams. He was very civic oriented. Jules was a Mason and was a member of Perseverance Lodge, Sandusky City Chapter #72, Sandusky City Council #26, Erie Commandry #23, and served as past Monarch for Singara Grotto. He also served as secretary of Elks Lodge 2709 in Palm Coast, FL.
Jules' favorite role, though, was Santa Claus, and he spent many Christmases spreading cheer at the cookie house in Washington Park as well as various schools and nursing homes in the community. Though he donned the red suit of Santa Claus from November to December, he embodied the heart of Santa year-round.
Known for his big personality and compassionate heart, Jules will be missed by all who knew him.
Jules is survived by his wife of 41 years, Ann; son, Carl R. (Susan); daughter, Trisha (Kris); brother, Carl T.; sister, Elise; many nieces and nephews; and grandpups, Stella and Freya.
He was preceded in death by his father, Carl M.; mother, Margaret; brother, Donald; and sister, Elizabeth.
A visitation will be from 3-6 P.M. on Saturday, June 4 at Toft Funeral Home & Crematory 2001 Columbus Ave., Sandusky. Funeral services will begin at 6 PM.
Because Washington Park in Sandusky meant so much to Jules throughout his entire life, his family would like to donate a bench with a plaque in his memory to the park. Those that are compelled to give are urged to donate to this effort instead of sending flowers. We are working with the city park service to establish a fund. In the meantime donations can be Venmo'd: @T-Bahn. If we raise more than the cost of the bench, excess funds will be donated to Sandusky's Shop with a Cop fund for the upcoming Christmas season to help carry on Santa's legacy.
Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting toftfuneralhome.com.
