Funeral Services for James Stanzel, Sr., age 97, of Schulenburg, will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2024, from St. Rose Catholic Church in Schulenburg. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 a.m. with the Schulenburg Volunteer Fire Department memorial service to start at 10:30 a.m., followed by the parish rosary.

Interment will follow in St. Rose Catholic Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Schulenburg American Legion.

James was born on March 15, 1927, to Edward and Stephanie Stanzel. Born and raised in Schulenburg, James attended Middle Creek School through age 15 and then worked on the family farm. He was drafted by the United States Army in 1945 and after 9 months, was discharged to come home and take care of the family farm as well as his family. He took great pride in raising crops and animals, and continued farming until the end of his life. He worked for Armco Steel, which later became Contech Steel, for 35 years as a lead welder, and retired in 1992.

He married Helen Migl on April 28, 1962. Together they had three children, Janice Kana and her husband John, Jimmie Stanzel and his wife Gina Winnie, Sandra Stanzel and her partner, Michelle McMurry; five grandchildren, Jordan Ayres and husband Zach, Jillian Kana, Jacqueline Kana, Jayme Kana, and McKenzy Winnie; and four great grandchildren, Madeline Moseley, Henry "Hank" Ayres, Cooper James Ayres, and Tripp Patterson Ayres. All were his pride and joy and he lit up every minute he could be with his family.

James was a member of the American Legion for 75 years, Knights of Columbus, Schulenburg Retired Fireman's, Jaycees, and lifelong member of St. Rose Catholic Church. He also served as Fayette County Constable for many years.

In addition to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, James is also survived by his brother, Ted Stanzel; 3 sisters-in-law, Bea Krejci, Patsy Masek, and Edna Migl; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; brother, Leo Stanzel; and sister, Anita Stanzel Srubar.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church or School, the American Legion, or Schulenburg Volunteer Fire Department.