Jym R. Ganahl

In His Own Words: 

On September 7th, 1948 I opened my eyes in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  Right away I knew my birthday was special, it was autumn in Iowa.  My sister, Jackie, decided to be born on September 7th, 1949 forever ruining my special day.  I only got half of the presents I deserved after that.

Then came siblings Jeff, John, Jeanne, Joe, and Julie (Dad’s favorite) and I was out of the house at age 17 so they could have my bed and my stuff.

School was uneventful for me.  Dad said, “I was the smartest of the dumb kids, and the dumbest of the smart kids.”  My GPA was good (3.24) and I lettered in track.

The draft was going on and my ping pong ball number was 7 so normal life was over.  I was the #1 marksman with an M-16 and Outstanding Scout and was put into a helicopter unit because of my weather background.

The Blizzard of 1978 hit Ohio and they wanted weathermen from cold climates to be able to get to work, so I got the job.  I have been doing this for nearly 60 years.  I am in the AP Broadcasting Hall of Fame and was voted one of the sexiest weathermen on TV by Victoria’s Secret.  Did not need any other awards after that one.  

I was voted 19th most iconic person in Columbus history by Columbus Monthly.  Humbled that #18 was Colo the gorilla at the zoo.

My life has been so happy and filled with love. I am beyond joyful that my siblings are in such close contact with me.  

I love my daughters Lindsey and Lauren so much and am so proud of them.  Lindsey’s husband, Mike, is the rock in the family and to me.  Admire him every day. I've really enjoyed having Mike's sons in my life. Lauren’s husband, Jason, has listened to God’s Word and is the one who listens to His commandments for their family. I have seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  Each of them has individual talents that make them all so special and loving. I hope you all know just how special you are to me. 

Jamie is my best friend.  She watches out for me and I am the Godfather to her amazing children.  I am also Godfather to Julie in Iowa, and Emily and Allie from Kansas.

Jason and Krista are lifelong friends.  Courtney helps me on my faith journey.

I am so grateful to the Central Ohio community for the love, friendship, and support they have given me all these years.  It was an honor to meet so many of you, to hear your stories, and be treated like family.  I am grateful to my colleagues through six decades of broadcasting.  It has been a pleasure working with you and I am blessed to call you my friends.  I don’t miss the severe weather days though!  Thank you for letting me do what I love, sharing the forecast and folklore with you and always feeling that I am among friends.

From Jym’s Family:

Jym’s family wishes to thank the wonderful staff and residents at Silvertree Apartments, where he made his home.  They also want to extend their love and gratitude to the community at Mill Run Care Center, who not only cared for and comforted Jym in his final months, but also welcomed his family in friendship.  Jym passed away at Mill Run on Monday, February 3, 2025.  He was 76 years old.

In lieu of flowers, anyone who wishes to honor Jym may donate to the 15/10 Foundation at 15outof10.org.  The Foundation helps shelter dogs receive needed medical care and find forever homes.  Please dedicate all donations in his memory.

*Photo courtesy of WCMH NBC4 Columbus

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