James Arther Roessler

Jim Roessler died peacefully on November 10 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.  He was blessed to live a long and satisfying life, surrounded by the love of family and friends.  He was born to Emma and George Roessler in South Bend where he graduated from Central High School.  In 1943 he joined the Army and served in the European and Pacific Theaters as a skipper and engineer on tugboats, freighters, and passenger ships.  In 1944, Jim married Maryellen Helt, his high school sweetheart, and they lovingly shared their lives together until 2010, when Mellen passed away. After the war, Jim returned to Stanz Cheese Company where he served as a salesman and vice-president for 27 years.  In his retirement, he dedicated himself to his family and friends.  They gave him so much support that he was able to live independently until the end of his life.  Some of Jim’s happiest days were spent at his cottage on Round Lake where he served as the unofficial “host of the beach.” Jim is survived by his son Michael (Mary) Roessler, granddaughter Kate (James) Boynton, his wonderful grandchildren–Lola, Ruby and Gus, and his special friend, Sandra Larkin. He was predeceased by Maryellen, his daughter, Cynthia Roessler, and his sisters, Patricia (Bob) Barnes and Marge (Tom) Kinney.   Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be directed to the Homeless Angels Lansing at  www.homelessangels.org. Please sign Jim’s guestbook and leave a memory of him at www.clarkch.com.