James Robert Michal

James Robert Michal, 76, of Rensselaer, passed away Monday evening, Sept. 20, 2021 at Franciscan Health Rensselaer. He was born in Valparaiso on Nov. 15, 1944, the son of Robert Michal and Doris (Yost) Michal. Jim was a graduate of Fair Oaks High School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1962-1963 as an aviation mechanic in Anchorage, Alaska.

He was a self-employed truck driver. He enjoyed fishing and attending his grandchildren’s ball games. Jim was a Christian man who loved the Lord. He volunteered for many years at the Rensselaer Care Center where he preached and sang every Sunday. He also volunteered at other local nursing homes visiting the residents.

Jim is survived by one daughter, Leila (Kurt) Klemme of Rensselaer; two sons, Boyd (Sheri) Michal of Rensselaer and Ken (Lynette) Michal of Wolcott; one step-daughter, Tiffany (Simon) Silitonga of Noblesville; one sister, Maureen (Robert) Schultz of DeMotte; 7 grandchildren: Tara Klemme (fiancé Dave), Megan Klemme, Dalton Michal, Bethany Michal, Mitch (Hunter) Michal, Grace Michal (fiancé Clint), and Emma Michal; one great-grandson, Owen Michal; and four step-grandchildren. Also surviving is his former wife and the mother of his children, Linda (Beoughter) Michal of Rensselaer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Dr. Phillip Michal; and a stillborn daughter, Sandra Kay.

Visitation will be Monday, Sept. 27, 2021 from 10 a.m. until time of funeral at 12 p.m. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Derald Ailes officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Welsh Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.