James “Jim” A. Charleston, 75, of St. Joseph, passed away on Wednesday, May 08, 2019, at his residence.
A Celebration of Life Service will take place on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 11:30 AM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, with Father Ben Huynh officiating. A private burial will take place at a later date. Friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 from 5 PM until 7 PM at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Caring Circle Hospice. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Jim was born on September 28, 1943, in Benton Harbor, to Wilbur, Sr. and Twyla (Roosevelt) Charleston. On May 15, 1965, Jim married the love of his life, Michele Allain, at St. John’s Church in Benton Harbor. For many years Jim worked at City Plumbing as a Shop Forman. However, during the Christmas season he would spend his time as his alternate role of Santa Claus. Jim would dress as Santa for family gatherings, work events and would visit various nursing homes to help spread the Holiday cheer. Jim enjoyed fishing and sitting around a campfire spending time with his family and friends. He also liked to watch the Chicago Blackhawks and cage fighting matches. Jim was a member of The Knights of Columbus Council No. 1120. Jim was an incredible man, with a great sense of humor. He always had a joke ready to tell and absolutely loved putting a smile on everyone’s face.
Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 54 years, Michele; children, Christine (Martin) Quigley of Coloma, Michael (Dawn) Charleston of Stevensville and Elizabeth (TJ) Meister of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Jeffrey (Sarah) Quigley, Samantha (Tom) Czuba, and Zachary (Elizabeth Cloud) Quigley; sisters, Patricia Neuman and Mary (Richard) Fester; sister-in-law, Ester Charleston; grand-dogs, Hail, Gizmo, and Zoey; great-grand-dogs, Leia, Mylo and Cali; and many nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Wilbur, Jr. and Jack; sister, Betty Charleston; and brother-in-law, Ron Neuman.
Posted On: Thursday, May 9, 2019 3:45 PM
