Photo Caption: James B. Muntean, D.O.
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James B. Muntean, D.O., 61, of Athens died suddenly Monday evening, October 3, 2011, at O'Bleness Memorial Hospital, Athens. Born August 12, 1950 in Cleveland, he was the son of the late George and Helen Violet Stoicoiu Muntean, Jr.
He was a graduate of Strongsville High School, Ohio University and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Prior to becoming a physician, he was a social worker with the 317 Board of Athens County. He had served as Deputy Coroner and County Coroner of Athens County. In addition to his private practice, he was the physician at Echoing Meadows Rehabilitation Center and Bassett House. He also lectured at the O.U. Medical School. He was very active in Bando Martial Arts, both locally and nationally.
Dr. Muntean is survived by his daughter, Marisa Muntean; his son and daughter-in-law, Nick Muntean and Rebecca Onion; his longtime companion, Candice Bond; his ex-wife and friend, Gloria Muntean; two sisters, Linda Muntean and Dolly and husband Mike Holtz; and his brother, John Muntean.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are with Jagers & Sons Funeral Home, Athens. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register book at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
Jim was not only my doctor but also my friend. He dared to challenge the norm and always swam against the current. This is one of the reasons he was such a good doctor. His wit, sense of humor, and willingness to spend quality time with his patients made the long wait in his office worthwhile.
The world is a sadder place without him and he will be greatly missed. Our condolences to his family and the staff in his office.
Well said, Jo. He was my doctor too, for many years. He had such a grounded, down to earth approach to medical care. He was the best.
My condolences as well to his family and friends. Athens has lost a great soul.
Dr. Muntean was our family doctor since he opened his practice in Athens. We have been out of town for some time and just learned of his passing. We are still in shock to get this news. We will miss him greatly. Our condolences to his family and staff in the office.
Dr. Muntean was a phenomenal person. I feel so blessed to have had him as one of my OMM professors at OU-HCOM for my entire second year. I still remember his genuine smile and heart-warming words and way of teaching. He was always very approachable and willing to teach you and take the time to talk about everything and anything. I miss him so much. May he rest in peace and God bless his beautiful family that he spoke so proudly of. My deepest condolences to everyone who ever had the honor of speaking with him and getting to know him. He also gave the most heartfelt hugs! What a brilliant and beautiful spirit! I learned so much from Dr. Muntean, an OMM star that will be greatly missed. I learned that quality time with patients matters most...being genuine and caring is key in any profession, especially the medical field. He will forever remind me to have courage, to be myself, to step out of my comfort zone, to take the necessary steps it takes to establish the best rapport with your patient, and become an advocate for my patients, a great listener, and a leader in the community. We love you, Dr. Muntean!
Dr. Muntean was one of our professors, and a great one at that, at Ohio University. Being taught by Dr. Muntean was like being taught by a friend, a fellow comrade because he treated you like anyone else regardless if you were a student, a colleague, or a patient. He was easy to talk to and he always provided simple and helpful answers. Most importantly, he had a rare and inspiring perspective on how to live life and also how to practice medicine which was very patient centered and he always made that his focus. I am thankful to have been taught by such a great teacher as his motivation, spirit, and energy will continue as I incorporate his lessons and teachings into practice. He is truly missed at our school and also around the community.