James William Kershner

James William Kershner, age 85, of Adrian went home to our Lord on Tuesday, October 1, 2013 surrounded by his loving family, caregiver, and under the gentle care of Hospice of Lenawee. He is free from the pain and confinement of a stroke suffered eight years ago.James was born December 22, 1927 in Kansas, the son of William Wesley and Elodia (Cuadra) Kershner. While attending Clinton High School he met his love, Marie Frolich whom he wed in 1948. They shared 45 years together before Marie died in 1993. He then met Elizabeth Calvin, they wed in 1994. They were able to enjoy 11 years of retirement style living before Jim’s stroke in 2005. Elizabeth faithfully cared for Jim’s needs at their home with the assistance of wonderful caregivers and the support of family and friends.Jim worked as a Supervisor at Tecumseh Products Company for 32 years and was also a builder and had a unique ability to repair anything earning the nickname “Mr. Fix-it.” He also enjoyed ballroom and square dancing and traveling. A devout Catholic, he was always involved with their charities and volunteered his time freely.Jim grew up on a farm and developed a strong work ethic at a young age. This was how he guided his four children who survive. Terry (Marsha) Kershner, Kathy (Dan) Lauer, Gary (Cathy) Kershner, Chris (Gordy) Studnicka. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Chad Kershner, Kelly (Tim) Dieffenbaugher, Carrie Baker, Jamie Callison, Jennie (Rob) Barker, Ryan (Jessica) Kershner, Mike (Kanthima) Studnicka, and Eric (Amy) Studnicka; ten great grandchildren; his two sisters, Hazel (Dick) Jacobs and Evelyn Dressler; Elizabeth’s children, James (Jody) Calvin, Lewis (Jill) Calvin Sr., Linda (David) Lips, Richard (Linda Montecinos) Calvin, and Karen (Doug) Witt; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife Marie and his sister Mary VanTuyle.Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013 at the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes. The funeral Mass will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 305 Division Street, Adrian on Friday, Oct. 4, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Fr. Shaun Lowery as Celebrant. He will lie in state at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral Mass. Interment will be at Lenawee Hills Memorial Gardens in Tecumseh. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Lenawee or the Charity of the Donor’s choice. Condolences may be offered to the family by visiting www.handlerfuneralhomes.com.