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Michael James Obituary
Oct 24, 1966 - Feb 16, 2026
Castalia
Michael Louis James, 59, residing in Castalia, passed away unexpectedly Monday evening, February 16, 2026.
Michael was born October 24, 1966, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to the late Harold V. and Mary L. (Kromer) James.
Michael graduated from Margaretta High School in the class of 1985. He dedicated over 25 years of service as a maintenance mechanic at Firelands Regional Medical Center. Prior to that, he was employed at Famous Supply, where he also took great pride in his work. Michael was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, American Legion Post 83, AMVETS Post 17, and The Outlaws. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and had a passion for coin collecting. He was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and loved his golden retrievers, Riley, Reese, and Simon. He was a skilled handyman who could fix just about anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He especially looked forward to Friday night dinners at the Legion and cherished the time he spent with his family and friends.
Michael is survived by his three sisters, Cathy (Ron) Gruhlke, Cynthia Harvey, Connie James; his brother, Jason (Christina) James; great friends, John and Del MacDonald and their kids, Devon (Alivia) MacDonald and Jared (Rachel) MacDonald; special friend, Tina Fuhrman; and numerous nieces, nephews, dear friends and other relatives.
In addition to his parents, Michael is preceded in death by his sister, Carol Stout.
Friends may call from 4-7 p.m. Monday February 23, 2026, at Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1607 E. Perkins Ave., Sandusky. Prayers will be recited at the funeral home at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Ave. Sandusky. Burial will follow at Meadow Green Memorial Park, Huron.
Those wishing to contribute to Michael's memory may do so to St. Mary Catholic Church, 429 Central Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870; or American Legion Riders Fund, 3615 S. Hayes Ave., Sandusky, OH 44870.
Condolences may be shared online at www.grofffuneralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael James
Sponsored by Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory - Sandusky Chapel.
3 Entries
Thomas Vaccaro
February 20, 2026
I was on vacation action when I heard.
Mike was a great teacher in hvac for me on the sheetmetal side of it.
We used to bend metal in the back of his garage, which taught me different techniques.
Thank you for those skills, you will be missed my friend
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Pamela Warner
February 20, 2026
Cindy, I never knew your brother but from what I've been reading he was a great guy. I'm sending hugs and prayers to you and your family and asking God for patience and for understanding the things that don't make sense to us here on Earth. Rest in Eternal Peace Michael. Take care! Sending love and understanding your way. Pam Warner
Kimberly Knall (Platte)
February 20, 2026
Mike was a great guy I enjoyed his sense of humor and his hard work. He was always there to fix anything needing fixing with the hospital facilities. My dad and I both worked with him and he will be greatly missed. You left us to soon but we will never forget the impact you left on many lives. Fly High Mike RIP
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Memorial Events
for Michael James
Feb
23
Funeral services provided by:
Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory - Sandusky Chapel1607 E. Perkins Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870
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