Jean Botomogno

Jean-Jules Leopold Botomogno passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at Riverside Methodist Hospital, early December 20th, surrounded by family. He was born on November 24, 1961, in Yaoundé, Cameroon to Daniel Ambassa and Lydie Abelelak. Jean-Jules was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Elise. He is survived by his wife Marsha (Ellsworth) and two children, Daniel and Michelle; siblings Angele, Miriam, Claude, Helene, Joelle, Yvonne, Isabelle, Guy Gerard, and Prince. He is also survived by his Uncle Dax Bityeki (Julienne); cousins Olivier (Bintou), Natalie, Willie (Chanelle), Linda (Pat); and many others.

Jean-Jules was a loving father and husband. His children were his pride and joy. He passed on to his family his love of learning, spending much of his time reading and sharing his vast  knowledge with others. While he was content to be at home, Jean loved a good party—where you could often find him breaking it down on the dance floor. Jean and Marsha spent many evenings dancing the night away. 

Jean was patient, principled, and steadfast. He was a great role model and coach for his children, teaching them how to be leaders. With his charming personality and his ability to make everyone feel welcome, strangers easily became friends. Of all the remarkable qualities Jean had, his radiant, beaming smile and infectious laugh are what most people will remember him by.

Jean was always a gifted student and athlete. At age 16, he played on the Cameroonian Junior National Team. Although football (soccer) was his first talent and passion, he knew pursuing higher education was a path to a successful career.  Once he’d obtained his baccalaureate, he was admitted to L’École Nationale Supèrieure D’Agriculture De Yaoundé, the top agricultural school in Cameroon. In 1986, Jean first came to the United States to pursue a master's degree in Agricultural Economics at the Ohio State University. Following his degree, he returned to Cameroon to teach at the University Center of Dschang. After securing a job at an international non-profit organization, Appropriate Technology International, he moved to Washington DC. In 1992, he relocated to Columbus, Ohio to be with his wife Marsha. Jean became an enrolled agent for the IRS and did tax preparations for H&R Block, which continued with each tax season. In January 2000, he began work at the Ohio Legislative Service Commission, achieving the position of Chief Economist—a job he loved and was very proud of.

Jean loved watching all sports, but soccer was by far his favorite. He played in several adult leagues, was a big Columbus Crew fan, and frequently went to games with his former teammates and friends. Jean also enjoyed traveling, taking trips within the United States and internationally to visit family.

A celebration of life with close friends and family will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice in memory of Jean.

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