James Aebli

Obituary of James Robert 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, MI, a son of the late Fredrick and Opal (Spaulding) Aebli. Jim was raised in Springfield, MI and graduated from Springfield High School with the class of 1962. He received his bachelors Degree from Western Michigan University and a masters 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. Josephs County and worked his way to become 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 Dipolma, which lead 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 County 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 RV 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, WA Denine (Bob Fritcher) Schaar of Clare, MI 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, MI His brother-in-law: James (Carol) Clem of Jackson, MI 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 www.memorialchapel.net. The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes of Chassell are assisting the family with the arrangements. To send flowers to the family of James Aebli, please visit Tribute Store