James Lindsley, 88

James E. Lindsley, age 88, of Sturgis, was surrounded by his family when he passed away Tuesday afternoon, February 18, 2025, at his home.

He was born November 30, 1936 in Constantine, son of the late Howard and Catherine (Lott) Lindsley.

Jim resided in Sturgis since 1968 coming from Centreville where he was a graduate of Centreville High School class of 1955.

On December 14, 1958, he married the love of his life, Joan R. Oxender, at the Florence Church of the Brethren in Constantine.

Jim was a dedicated employee of Burr Oak Tool for 52 years. At the time of his retirement, he held the position of Vice President of Operations and was a current member of the company’s Board of Directors.

He was a member of the Sturgis Kiwanis Club, B.P.O.Elks #1381, St. Joe Valley Old Engine Association, the Percheron Draft Horse Association, and Corvette Club. He was very active and involved in 4-H, including serving as an advisor to the Fawn River Clovers 4-H Club.

Jim was proud to have served his country in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1953-1965 and took great pride in being a Tank Commander.

Jim had a fabulous life fulfilled with so many interests and adventures. During the past 20 years he has been showing his Percheron horses with his son, Jeff. He loved to travel the world, whether it was for work or pleasure. He went to Klondike Ranch in Wyoming to ride horses and drive cattle to the mountains for 7 years. He spent many years fishing with multi generations of family in Wawa, Canada. His patience was insurmountable as Jim taught his children and grandchildren countless life skills. As a private pilot he enjoyed flying, especially in the fall when the leaves changed. His other hobbies included reading, mowing, farming, raising beef cattle, gardening, boating, sailing, water skiing, and hunting. But what he truly cherished was time spent with his family

He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife: of 66 years: Joan; three daughters: Jodi (Bill) Kelley and Jacquelyn Lindsley, both of Sturgis, and Jennifer (Michael) Lindsley Stevens of Kennebunk, Maine; one son: Jeffrey (Cathy) Lindsley of Sturgis; grandchildren: Crystal (Frank) Holden, Shawn (Chris) Kelley, LeeAnn Kelley, Joshua (Sabrina) Lindsley, Conor Stevens, Riley Stevens and Kaden Stevens; great grandchildren: Makenzie, Mason, Machiah, Chaz, Jace, Jamie and Jenna; great great grandchildren: Emery and Ezra; two sisters: Shirley Velie of Pellston and Barbara Moore of Dowagiac; two brothers: Larry (Pearl) Lindsley of Brandon, Mississippi and Bill Lindsley of Centreville, plus many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and two brothers.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 to 2:00 Thursday, March 27th at Radiant Life Church, 907 N. Nottawa St. in Sturgis. The celebration of Jim’s life will immediately follow the visitation at 2:00. The Rev. Rodger Moyer will officiate. A graveside committal will follow the memorial service at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Sturgis.

The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.

The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Jim’s memory consider St. Joe County 4-H Youth Council, 612 E. Main Street, Centreville, MI 49032.

We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.