James M. Shimmel Sr.

James M. Shimmel Sr., 69, of West Decatur, passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at his home surrounded by family.

Jim was born December 20, 1955, in West Decatur, the son of the late Robert and Iva (Mease) Shimmel. 

Jim was employed as a truck driver, having worked for Leaseway, BOC Gases, Kephart, and Dart. Jim loved to smoke meats and feed people, making sure everyone always had enough to eat. He also enjoyed his bulldogs over the years. Jim loved having family and friends come to visit him and most of all, Jim loved his family.

Jim is survived by his wife Kathey (Lyons) Shimmel, whom he married on March 26, 1999; two children, Jamie Serena and husband Paul of Shawville and James Shimmel Jr. and wife Jessica of Clearfield; seven grandchildren, Devon and wife Mackenzie, Elizabeth and husband Merritt, Caitlyn, Meghan, Olivia, Makenzie, and Shannon; two great grandchildren, James and Gwendolyn; two brothers, Elwood Clair Shimmel of Palmerton, and Walter Roy Shimmel Sr. of West Decatur; a sister, Joyce Elaine Minerich of Gibsonia; and several nieces and nephews. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Brooke; and two brothers, Emery L. Mease and Robert Leon Shimmel. 

A funeral service will be held at the Beardsley Funeral Home & Crematory on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM.

A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 from 11 AM - 2 PM. In lieu of flowers, 

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Boggs Township Park, Boggs Township, 150 Blue Ball Road, W. Decatur, PA 16878.

To sign the online guestbook, visit beardsleyfuneralhome.com.