James A. Birkey

James Allen Birkey, 64, of Bremen, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 14, 2018.  Jim was born on September 28, 1953, the son of Robert and Arlene (Aker) Birkey.  On April 28, 1973, he married Julie Weiler. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Julie; their four children, Joni Birkey of Hamlet, Jennifer (Clint) Goble of Walkerton, Jill (Ryan) Hovarter of Hamlet and Joshua (Joelaine) Birkey of Lapaz; seven grandchildren, McKenzi, Bryce, Brandon, Carter, Julia, MaCoy, and Riley. He is also survived by his parents, Bob (Arlene) Birkey of Plymouth; three siblings, John (Debbie) Birkey of Bremen, Jeanne (Denny) Yoder of New Paris and Jackie (Mark) Marsh of Bremen and mother-in-law, Marilyn Weiler of Lakeville. Jim was an active member of Nappanee Missionary Church, attending many mission trips.  He was proud member of the Bricklayers Union Local 4 and a member of the Lakeville Conservation Club.  Jim was a very hardworking man and enjoyed playing football and camping with his family.  The three most important things in his life were his faith in God, his parents and his family. Visitation will be held from 2:00-8:00 pm, Wednesday, July 18, 2018 in Nappanee Missionary Church, 70417 St Rd 19, Nappanee.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am, Thursday, July 19, 2018 in the church.  Pastor David Engbrecht will officiate.  Burial will follow in Bremen Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Nappanee Missionary Church mission’s fund.