James Schell

James Ward Schell, 78, Chesaning, MI, formerly of Caro, MI, died peacefully on September 14, 2025 at home surrounded by his family.

Jim was born January 31, 1947, to Ward and Mary Hadi Schell in Caro, MI. He served his country in the Army where he spent most of his time driving supply trucks in Germany. He was an outstanding mechanic and between Rushlo Wrecking, Tuscola County Road Commission, Pat Curtis Chevrolet and Great Lakes Railroad spent most of his life with his head under the hood of a vehicle. He married Janice (Ziegler) Gruner on March 5 , 1982 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Caro, MI. Jim was known to lend a hand to anyone who needed help. He passed his knowledge on to his children and grandchildren. There wasn't much he couldn't do. He loved the time spent at the Labor Day celebration each year and any other time spent with family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jan; children, Gina Schell, James D. Schell, David (Kelly) Gruner, and Craig (Katie) Gruner; grandchildren, James W., Rebecca, Nathan, Declan, Oliver, William and Isabelle; siblings, M. Edith Fields-Ihrke, Sarah Jesse, Diane (Jim) Predmore, Linda (George) Curtis, Dan(Patsy) Schell; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Ward Schell, mother, Mary Schell, sister, Jennie Pruett, brothers-in-law Ken Jesse and Jim Pruett.

Visitation will take place Monday, September 29, 2025 at 10:00-11:00 am in the narthex of Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, 708 Sanderson St., St. Charles, MI. The Funeral Service will immediately follow. Burial will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations can be made to the National Stroke Association and Susan Mast Foundation.