James Joseph Schuler

James Joseph Schuler, age 65, passed away July 6, 2016 after a long and courageous battle with a rare disease (HLH) and cancer. Jim was born on October 11, 1950 in Tecumseh, Mich., to John J. and Arlene (Carl) Schuler. On December 18, 1976, he married Patricia J. Smith.  Jim has been a lifelong resident of Clinton, Mich. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1968, and also from Grand Valley State College, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree. 

He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter in Clinton for 20 years including 10 years as Assistant Fire Chief. Jim was employed by Lenawee County Road Commission in the Engineering Dept., and then by the Clinton Wastewater Treatment Plant as superintendent, retiring in 2012.

Jim was an avid cross country runner in high school and college. He was also very proud of being on the CHS basketball team that finished second in the state championship. He enjoyed playing golf, brewing beer, reading and U of M football. He loved spending time with family and friends, including annual canoe trips with college friends and his best friend Joe Jagielski. Jim will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia (Smith) Schuler; brother, John (Diane) Schuler Jr.; nephews, John Schuler Ill., Christopher Schuler, Scott Smith and Jay Smith; nieces, Nicole Beazley, Jill Smith, Kim Talarczyk, Coelle Smith Kirkpatrick; sister-in-law, Pamela Goldman and brother-in-laws, Gregg Smith and Phil Smith.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral service was held Monday, July 11, 2016 at the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Home at 2 p.m. with Pastor Diane White officiating. Burial was at Riverside Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Clinton United Church of Christ or charity of one’s choice.

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.handlerfuneralhomes.com.