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James Bauschke Obituary
James Bauschke of Kalamazoo, Mich., 80, died on July 24, 2025. Jim was born April 22, 1945, in South Haven. He is preceded in death by his parents: Alfred and Adena (Olson) Bauschke and his sister, Joanne Pherigo.
Surviving are his wife, Jane; sons: Ryan Bauschke and Patrick Bauschke; favorite granddaughter, Yasmine "Shae" Ford; sister, Betty (Charlie) Simpson; brother-in-law, Johnny Pherigo and many extended family and nieces and nephews to whom he will always be the Awesome Uncle Jim!
Jim believed in the power of stories. They have the power to create emotion and interest, as well as the power to heal. He spent his career and his life learning how to listen to them, capture them, retell them and guiding others to do the very same.
Join us now as we share his story at a life story service at 4 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 1, at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, 375-2900. Jim also loved a good party and he's going to get one! A reception will follow the service in the Life Story Center with food, drinks and Jimlets! Private burial with military honors in Lake View Cemetery in South Haven.
Celebrate Jim's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael Listiak Music Fund through the South Haven Community Foundation
As Jim often said, "Remember, you're wonderful."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Bauschke
4 Entries
Tami Penny
August 1, 2025
Jim was a special guy. One of a kind. I will always remember his warmth and kindness and his helpful nature. Sending my condolences to his family.
Paul Z. Uzarski
July 30, 2025
What a great guy Jim was. I always enjoyed our talks together. From his time with Batesville through his time with Lifestory. May the Angels lead him into paradise and may the Martyrs come to welcome him. May he rest in peace.
Dave Wiatrowski
July 28, 2025
To all of Jim's family, please accept my most sincere condolences on Jim's passing. I got to know Jim when he came back from serving in the military and started his career at Calvin's Funeral Home in South Haven. His smile, demeanor and cheerful presence was always something to look forward to. The world is a lesser place without him.
James Gilbert, MD
July 26, 2025
Very sad. Jim and I go back to our childhoods on Center Street in South Haven. We connected periodically through the years. I´ve lost a good friend.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Memorial Events
for James Bauschke
Funeral services provided by:
Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes - Kalamazoo6080 Stadium Dr, Kalamazoo, MI 49009
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