James Micheal Irick

God never sees His children die; He only sees them come home. Home and family were so important to James. As much as we were not ready for him to leave, his earthly family knows that James was welcomed into his eternal home on May 29th, 2025. There, he was invited to the ultimate reunion with his Heavenly family, and that one day, we will see him again.
James Irick was raised with a strong work ethic, respect for God, and a love for his country. He served his country in the Army Branch of the military and was honorably discharged on September 22, 1964. He was passionate about providing for the wellbeing of his family. His long-term plans always involved making sure his family was taken care of in many, varied ways. This was evidenced by the 24/7, decade long care he provided for his wife, our loving mother, Edna LaDean Irick, before she passed away in May of 2015.
James believed that daytime was work time! He had many jobs. Throughout his life, some of those were: employee of Jolly Green Giant Company, Dairy and Ranch work, extrusion mechanic at Alenco, mechanic at International Harvester, and finally the job he retired from, the United States Postal service, where he maintained mail processing equipment (MPE mechanic). His final position at the Post Office involved air conditioning and electrical upkeep. Later in life, he was so proud to know that he had passed the Irick work ethic to his children.
James was not much for belonging to committees or group organizations. However, if you were family, friend, or neighbor, there was no length that he would not have gone to to provide you with anything you needed. He was always willing to share his expertise, from automobiles, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, air conditioning, to much more; his skills and sage (sometimes unsolicited) advice were available for those close to him, physically and emotionally.
He had many hobbies which brought him joy. The one that his family will most remember will be his stories. He was a storyteller. His memories were deep treasures to him, and he loved to share and share! Like all good stories, these always came with a life lesson to be learned.
James enjoyed pond fishing for bass and catfish. It was a special pleasure to teach his grandchildren to bait and cast a line, and to wait, with patience, for that tug on the bobber.
He loved woodworking and created his own special company called, "Swings and Things." He built picnic tables, adirondack chairs, cabinetry, and A-frame swings that are all around the Brazos Valley still to this day.
In his workshop, he made room for a pool table. He played billiards with anyone who was up for a game. He played frequently with his son and daughters. He was especially tickled to introduce his great grandchildren to the game.
Sometimes he would spend hours playing the harmonica, strumming his guitar, or trying to play the fiddle. If he had company, then a game of straight dominoes, "Moon," or "42" would be started.
Gardening was in his agricultural roots. James always planted a summer and fall garden. Okra and tomatoes were his personal favorites. He also tended to his rose bushes and flower beds with great love and pride. He would often give his daughters and granddaughters roses he had picked just for them.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the Home Spark caregivers, who allowed him to live out his last year at home, Dad loved you all. The nurses, and therapists from Health Quest were also instrumental in his ability to be independent this past year.
Final message: The love James Irick showed to family has created an enduring legacy. His stories live in our hearts forever and will be passed down to future generations. His work on earth is done; he may now rest in peace.
James is preceded in death by his parents, John and Arvilla Irick; his siblings, George Irick, Bill Irick, John Lee Irick, Jack Irick, and Darlene Lowery; and his wife, Edna LaDean Irick
Let the circle be unbroken
James leaves behind a loving and grateful family, including his sister, Joyce Williams, and his children, Melody Irick Stephenson, Micheal Dean Irick, and Michelle Irick Houdek.
He leaves behind beloved grandchildren: James David Irick and wife Erin, Bethany Irick Jolly and husband, Billy, Heather Schatzke and husband, Casey, Tyler Houdek and wife Meagan, Rebekah Irick Duncan and husband, Ben, Caitlyn Houdek and fiance, Everett Woodward.
He leaves behind precious great-grandchildren: Lily Jolly, Delilah Lewis, Dean Irick, Joelle Jolly, Luke Duncan, Emersyn Houdek, Ezra Duncan, and Rowan James Schatzke to be arriving in June, 2025.
He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
Pallbearers: James David Irick, Tyler Houdek, Ben Duncan, Billy Jolly, Casey Schatzke, and Everett Woodward