James Richard Kettlewell

CROSWELL- James Richard Kettlewell, age 84, of Croswell, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, July 30 2026, surrounded by his children and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his family and the many lifelong friends he cherished. James was born on February 15, 1942, in Croswell, Michigan, to Harold and Dothyl (Fulmer) Kettlewell. He graduated from Croswell-Lexington High School in 1960 and married the love of his life, Ruthann Victoria Soule, on May 7, 1966. James was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Croswell and a Master Mason. He enjoyed a long career with Aunt Jane Foods, where he served as Traffic Manager and formed many lasting friendships and professional relationships. Jim never met a stranger. He had a kind, generous spirit and was always willing to lend a helping hand or share a story with anyone he met. After retiring, Jim and Ruthann enjoyed spending their winters in Florida and North Carolina, where they treasured time with friends and their grandchildren. Retirement never slowed him down. He looked forward each fall to working the sugar beet campaign at Michigan Sugar, and he found great satisfaction in tending his garden and puttering in his garage. James is survived by his children, Kelly (Amy Long) Kettlewell, Vicky (Bill) Forro, and Jimmy Kettlewell; grandchildren Garrett Forro, Megan (Cliff) Martin, and Austin (Samantha) Forro; great-grandson Liam Martin; sisters MaryLu Webster and Joan Filbeck; brother Ralph (Donna) Kettlewell; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Delma Kettlewell, Linda Kettlewell, Sharon (Ray) Meddaugh, and Mary Whitney; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Ruthann; brothers Arnold, Robert, and Tom Kettlewell; sister Carol; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Lores Kettlewell, Bill Webster, Dale Filbeck, Bruce Soule, Lois Bailey, Shirley Brown Sensabaugh, and Ed Whitney. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at the First Presbyterian Church in Croswell. Visitation will begin at 1 pm until the time of the service, with a luncheon to follow at the church. The Reverend Linda Fuller will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Croswell, the National Kidney Foundation, or Lakeshore AFC.

James Richard Kettlewell

February 15, 1942 - July 30, 2026