James Wessel, 89, of St. Marys, OH died at 9:50 p.m. on Friday June 26, 2020 at Elmcroft of Lima, OH.

He was born April 8, 1931 in Auglaize Co., OH to Earl "Heinie" and Alfrieda (Quellhorst) Wessel. On August 27, 1950 in New Knoxville, OH he married Eileen Haberkamp, who died September 6, 2017.

He is survived by: son Richard (Linda) Wessel of St. Marys, OH; daughter Laureen (David) Dickman of Grand Rapids, MI; son Eric Wessel of Lima, OH; son Clyde (Chris) Wessel of New Knoxville, OH; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; sister Mary Ann Rempe of St. Marys, OH.

Preceded in death by: parents Earl and Alfrieda Wessel; wife Eileen Wessel; granddaughter Katelyn Wessel; great-grandson Maverick Fishbaugh; brother Geary Wessel; brother-in-law James Rempe; sister-in-law Betty Wessel.

He was a retired farmer and 40-year production employee for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. in St. Marys. Following retirement, he and Eileen also worked at Disney World in Florida for several years.

He enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and abroad, golfing, flying and volunteering for church-related activities. Jim took a strong interest in the benefits of vocational education, and supported and encouraged the formation of the Tri Star Career Compact for area schools.

Graveside funeral rites are scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. Friday July 3, 2020 at the Pilger Ruhe Cemetery in New Knoxville, OH.

Visitation 5-8 p.m. on Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home 1605 Celina Road (Ohio 703 West) in St. Marys.

Memorial contributions may be directed to either the Alzheimer's Association or the Gideons International.

Condolences may be expressed and memories shared via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net.