James Chester Brechtelsbauer

James Chester Brechtelsbauer
Saginaw, Michigan
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend passed away Thursday, April 30, 2020. Age 94 years.
The son of the late Walter F. and Helen (Neumann) Brechtelsbauer was born May 18, 1925 in Saginaw, Michigan. He was a graduate of Arthur Hill High School and attended Northwestern University Radio School. He serve with the U. S. Navy during WWII. from 1943-1946. He proudly served in the Pacific Theatre in the prestigious Submarine fleet on the USS Threadfin. He was a Radioman and Sonar man.
James married Betty L. Sievert, January 31, 1948. His wife of 72 years survives him. James loved his occupation as a carpenter and often related to many public office building, schools and churches he was involved in building. He retired from the trade in 1986. His love for his occupation as a carpenter spilled over into woodworking as a hobby. Jim learned to play tennis at an early age. When 13, he was the youngest to play in the Novice Tennis Tournament sponsored by the Saginaw News. Later he went on to play tennis at Arthur Hill High School. He was also a lineman on Arthur Hill’s football team for 3 years. Dancing was one of Jim’s greatest pleasures. He and his wife belonged to a square dance club, a round dance club and the Delta College Clogging group. James was baptized at Bethlehem Lutheran Church and served as a member of the Board of Education for many years. His interest in the lives and development of youth drew him into being a youth counselor. He also sang in Bethlehem’s male chorus and played on the church softball team. He currently a member of Peace Lutheran Church.
Surviving besides his wife, Betty, are two sons, one daughter and their spouses,
Thomas and Linda Brechtelsbauer; Scott and Maree Brechtelsbauer; Lori Grai;
Three grandchildren, Melissa and Mark Curran; Jon Brechtelsbauer; Erin Cook; five great grandchildren, Riley Curran, Alexis Curran, Logan Curran, Landon Cook and Rhett Brechtelsbauer. A grandson, Jason Brechtelsbauer, his son-in-law, Robert Deatherage and a brother, Kenneth Brechtelsbauer have predeceased him.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service may take place at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider Peace Lutheran Church.