James M. Stuckman

James Melvin Stuckman, 87, of Bucyrus, passed peacefully at home on Monday, May 27, 2024 in the presence of many who loved him.

Jim was born May 19, 1937 in Marion County, Ohio to the late James Henry and Pearl May (Trash) Stuckman. He was a 1955 graduate of Sulphur Springs High School and shortly thereafter enlisted to serve in the US Army, where he was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Following his honorable discharge, Jim returned home and while cruising the streets in downtown Bucyrus, caught the eye of Vergene Markley. A brief courtship ensued and in March of 1963, they married and have shared 61 wonderful years of creating memories focused on their family. 

Jim spent some time working at Cobey Manufacturing and then took a driving position at Cooper Jarrett. This led to various other trucking routes with companies operated by Marv Hauenstein. He eventually retired from Alvan Motor Freight in 2000.

Jim was a longtime member of Good Hope Lutheran Church, where he had been active with the church council and served as an usher. He had most recently attended the Bucyrus Nazarene Church until his health no longer allowed. 

Jim’s life revolved around his family. There were many mornings when he’d drive by their homes, simply to make sure that everything appeared normal, and they could certainly count on his presence when one of them (child or grandchild) was involved in a sporting event. They shared lots of good times fishing in their earlier years and he was always up for a cookout and fellowship. He was a shoulder of support when there were issues, and he will certainly be missed by many. 

Jim enjoyed their time spent living in the country, where he had a big garden, planted lots of trees and cared for many animals. He enjoyed mowing his lawn, tinkering in his garage and was always in search of a flea market to add items to his many different collections. Jim and Vergene enjoyed square dancing, bus trips and attended shows for many years at the Bucyrus Little Theatre. 

In addition to his wife Vergene, Jim is survived by his children, Timothy James (Lisa) Stuckman, Terri Jo (Lee) Brewington, Thomas Melvin (Angel) Stuckman and Tonya May Russell; grandchildren, Zach (Lindsey) Brewington, Alexa (Robert) Kamenik, Taran (Leah) Stuckman, Venae Russell, Gage Stuckman, Kendall Stuckman, Draven Russell and Sawyer Russell; great grandchildren, Anson, Ava and Sloane as well as his sister, Joan (Earl) Smith. 

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Tyler James Stuckman; and siblings, William Stuckman, Jerry “Jake” Stuckman and Joyce Stuckman.

His family will receive friends from 11 – 12:55 pm Friday, May 31 at Wise Funeral Service, where his funeral will follow at 1:00 pm with Pastor Rich Hurles officiating. He will be laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery. 

Jim’s family was very thankful for the care and support offered by both the Veteran’s Administration and Southern Care Hospice and would request that if anyone desires, donations be made payable to Southern Care Hospice or a charity of the donor’s choice. These gifts will be accepted through the funeral home and expressions of sympathy are encouraged to be shared on his guestbook.