×

James R. Aebli

CHASSELL – James R. Aebli, 72, a resident of Chassell, passed away early Friday morning, May 6, 2016, at his home following a lengthy illness.

He was born on April 21, 1944, in Battle Creek, a son of the late Fredrick and Opal (Spaulding) Aebli.

Jim was raised in Springfield and graduated from Springfield High School with the class of 1962.

He received his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree from Central Michigan University.

Mr. Aebli was a veteran, having served with the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.

On December 18, 1971, he was united in marriage to the former Betty Clem.

James began a career as a social worker in in St. Joseph County and worked his way to becoming the supervisor of Clare County.

While working in Clare, Jim was very proud to have started a program to help people on assistance to achieve a high school diploma, which led to over 90 high school graduates and some college graduates.

Since 1999, the couple had made their home in Chassell. He then was a director in Baraga and Ontonagon counties for the Department of Human Services. He retired in 2005 as the director of Houghton, Keweenaw and Baraga counties for the Department of Human Services.

Jim was also active in the community, currently as vice president of the Copper Country Human Society. He was a past president of the Baraga Kiwanis Club and was active with Habitat for Humanity. He was also an avid biker, kayaker and weight lifter. He enjoyed traveling with his R.V. and attending concerts at different venues such as the Calumet Theater.

Preceding him in death were his parents; his brother, Frederick Louis Aebli; his brother-in-law, George; and his in-laws, George and Mille Clem.

Surviving are his wife, Betty Aebli of Chassell; his children, Denise (Paul Rebinskas) Aebli of Tacoma, Washington, Denine (Bob Fritcher) Schaar of Clare; his grandchildren, Michael Spears, Eric Curtice, Deana McBride, Mike McBride and Ryan Schaar; his great- grandchildren, Samantha and Peyton; his beloved pets, Prince and Angus; his sister, Pat (Ted) Kintner of Baldwin; his brother-in-law, James (Carol) Clem of Jackson; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

As requested, no service will take place.

To view James’ obituary or to send condolences to the family, please visit memorialchapel.net.

The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes of Chassell, are assisting the family with the arrangements.

James R. Aebli

CHASSELL – James R. Aebli, 72, a resident of Chassell, passed away early Friday morning May 6, 2016, at his home following a lengthy illness.

The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes of Chassell are assisting the family with the arrangements which will be announced at a later time.