James E. Schnelle, 75, of St. Marys, OH died April 18, 2016 at Auglaize Acres Nursing Home in Wapakoneta, OH.

He was born May 21, 1940 in St. Marys, OH to Lloyd and Mary (Griner) Schnelle. On November 12, 1966 in St. Marys, OH, he married Sue McDermitt, who survives. They were married for 49½ years, and friends for 50½!

Also survived by: daughter Tisha Ann Gilbert of San Antonio, TX son James Schnelle II of St. Marys, OH 3 grandchildren: Olivia (Kyle) Erickson, Steven Gilbert, Kirsten Schnelle 2 great-grandsons: Raiden Erickson, Rowan Erickson sister Ginny (Frank) Leonard of Montros, CO sister-in-law Shirley (Verl) Gayer of Gainsville,FL sister-in-law Mary Alice "Birdie" McDermitt of St. Marys, OH.

Preceded in death by: parents Lloyd and Mary Schnelle; brother Lloyd William Schnelle, Jr; sister Ruth (Gary) Pummell; brother John Schnelle; brother-in-law Don McDermitt.

He was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He retired from Thieman Stamping Co. in New Bremen, OH. He had also worked at STAMCO in New Bremen and the Tank Plant in Lima, OH.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church, VFW Post # 9289 (life member) and American Legion Post # 323, all in St. Marys. Jim was friendly and enjoyed serving others. He volunteered his time for Special Olympics events, VFW Post # 9289 Clown Unit and was also a member of the Post's Drill Team/Honor Guard. Along with his friend, Buzz Noland, he built the horseshoe court at American Legion Post # 323. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family.

Rites are scheduled to begin 3:00 p.m. Sunday June 5, 2016 at First Baptist Church 101 S. Wayne Street in St. Marys, with the Rev. Keith Stuck, officiating. Military funeral honors will be presented following services at the church.

Visitation one hour prior to services at the church.

Condolences may be expressed to the family via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Miller Funeral Homes in St. Marys.