Jim J. Sturtsman, 77, North Manchester, passed away on November 6, 2023, at Peabody Healthcare Center in North Manchester. The son of the late Lewis A. and Loretta B. (Morris) Sturtsman, Jim was born October 18, 1946, in Elwood, Indiana.
On December 11, 1966, Jim married Janet E. Davison, and the two were blessed with three children. They sadly endured every parent’s worst nightmare when their daughter Linda passed away on December 12, 1991. Both Jim and Janet remained steadfast in their love for one another. After thirty-eight years of marriage, Janet passed away on February 4, 2005. Jim was fortunate to later find a companion in Jeretta L. Bragg Taylor.
A humble man, Jim worked on the assembly line at Ford Meter Box in Wabash for thirty-four years before retiring in 2006. As many noticed, Jim resembled Santa Claus so much that he played the part for many organizations, families, and clubs for over five decades. He was a deeply caring, generous, soft-spoken man who volunteered with Wabash County Cancer Society as well as Traffic Assistance Patrol for many years. Nothing meant more to Jim than his family. He delighted in hearing about how everyone was doing and especially enjoyed their phone calls and visits.
The loving memory of Jim J. Sturtsman will be forever cherished by his daughter, Patty (Jerry) Good, North Manchester; son, Edgar “Andy” (Autumn) Sturtsman, North Manchester; sister, Sue Ulrey, Wabash; and grandchildren, Austin Sturtsman, Hayes Sturtsman, Harrison Sturtsman, Harper Sturtsman, Devin Good, and Alex Good. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Janet Sturtsman; companion, Jeretta Bragg Taylor; daughter, Linda Sturtsman; brothers, Bill and Bob Sturtsman; and sister, Irene Tyner.
Family and friends may call Thursday, November 9, 2023, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 10, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will follow at Laketon Cemetery, 950 North 200 West, North Manchester, Indiana.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Jim Sturtsman, memorial contributions may be made to Wabash County Cancer Society, P.O. Box 144, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or American Legion Post 286, 215 East Main Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.
The family of Jim Sturtsman has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com