James R. Wohler

James “Jim” R. Wohler, 66, of St. Joseph, passed away Thursday, October 18, 2012, at Silverbrook Manor, Niles, MI. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, Nov. 2, 2012, at 1:00 P.M. at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to the St. Joseph American Legion Post 163 baseball fund. Those wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Jim was born on January 8, 1946 in Muskegon, MI, to William and Doris (Samsen) Wohler. He served in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam era. He began employment at Wohler’s IGA in St. Joseph, the family business. Jim was a paint and wallpaper contractor for 35 years until he was forced to retire due to ill health. He was a top pitcher for St. Joseph High School and the St. Joseph American Legion Post 163 in the mid 1960’s. Afterwards, he played many years in slow pitch softball. He was a high average bowler and avid golfer. Jim managed and coached baseball and softball for over 30 years in Lakeshore. He actually began coaching in Germany in 1966. He loved working in youth sports. Survivors include a son Jason Wohler of Baroda, MI; daughter Kim (Matt) Beauchamp of Kalamazoo, MI; brother Eugene (Janis) Wohler of Stevensville; sister Ruth Appelgate of Roanoke, VA; and special friend, Cathy Clark. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, wife Carol Wohler, and a brother Robert Wohler.