Jim Karsatos, who started at quarterback for Ohio State in the mid-1980s, has died at the age of 61.
His body was discovered in his San Diego apartment last Saturday by his friend, former OSU roommate and Sigma Chi fraternity brother Velemir “Willy” Cicin, who owns the apartment complex. Cicin said Karsatos had heart issues and that the medical examiner determined Karsatos died of natural causes.
Karsatos played for Ohio State from 1983-86. He was a backup to Mike Tomczak his first two seasons before becoming a starter in 1985.
He led the Buckeyes to a 9-3 record that year under Earle Bruce, including a 22-13 upset of No. 1 Iowa. Karsatos threw for 2,115 yards with 19 touchdown passes.
In 1986, he threw for 1,927 yards and 13 touchdowns in another 9-3 season. He was one of the team’s two captains.
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The Miami Dolphins drafted Karsatos in the 12th round of the 1987 NFL draft. He spent two years with Miami as a backup to Hall of Famer Dan Marino but didn’t take any snaps.
He became a financial advisor in Columbus and for many years was a radio analyst for Ohio State football games.
“I always enjoyed playing and working with Jim,” said former Ohio State offensive lineman and current radio analyst Jim Lachey. “We were teammates at OSU and worked together on the radio network. He was a friend who was fun to work with, especially during the 2002 national championship season.”
A Fullerton, California, native, Karsatos had been living in San Diego since 2022, Cicin said.
“He was a great guy,” said Bob Maggs, who was Karsatos’ center at OSU. “He would lighten moments. His temperament was perfect for what we did. He was such a good guy on and off the field.
“You think of Jim and he was always smiling, always having a good time. In the hardest games and most critical situations, he was not a guy who would ever lose his head. He kept everybody else at ease, too.
“He was a great friend. He was one of those people that you say, ‘He never met a stranger.’ “
Cicin said Karsatos made friends quickly in his San Diego neighborhood.
“He was Mr. Personality, ‘Big Jim the football player,’ ” he said. “He was loved by all of us out here. It’s heartbreaking.”
Cicin said Karsatos and their circle of friends watched Ohio State games together, even flying an OSU flag.
Cicin said. Karsatos was “super excited” watching the Buckeyes’ national championship victory over Notre Dame on Jan. 20.
A public celebration of life honoring Karsatos will be held from 5-9 p.m. Sunday at Park Street Tavern in Columbus. Those attending are asked to wear OSU clothing.
Cicin said Karsatos’ sister Kelly is organizing a memorial next month in Fullerton.
