James Jacob Gassel

Howell, MI and North Fort Myers, FL

His Legacy… James Jacob Gassel, 89, passed away August 23, 2023.  He was born on May 8, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan to Joseph Gassel and Catherine Miller. Jim married Carol Abfalter on January 26, 1980, in Clawson, MI.  He will be remembered as Carol’s biggest cheerleader as the two did many activities together. Jim liked to joke that he graduated from Yale (high school). He was an avid fisherman and loved to go camping.  Jim loved traveling/cruising with Carol to different international destinations. He was involved in the Kolping Society (German Club).  His biggest pride and passion was for his grandchildren and family and demonstrated that love by making big breakfasts. Jim was a well-rounded soul who loved history, painting, drawing along with coin and stamp collecting. Jim’s resourcefulness was evident in his skills as a master of tool and die mold maker. He nurtured a dreamer’s spirit as a wannabe Disney Cartoonist, showcasing his imagination and artistic flair.

His Family… Jim will be missed by his wife, Carol; his children, Susan (Douglas) Steenbergh, Todd (Molly) Gassel, Mike (Tracey) Woody and Joanne (Scott) Berthelsen; his grandchildren, Gabriel, Danielle, Nicole, Meghan, Austin, Mackenzie, Michelle, Ava and Annabel; great grandchild, Everly; along with many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Joe and sister, Clara; stepson, Patrick; and grandchild, Ryan.

His Farewell… We invite family and friends to gather on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Howell Memorial Chapel. His Community Farewell will begin at 4:00 PM with funeral honors rendered at the conclusion of the service. Memorial contributions may be given to the VA Hospital of Ann Arbor.  Please leave a message of comfort for Jim’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

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