James Shively

James Joseph "Joe" Shively, 92, a resident of Churubusco, passed away on February 28, 2017 at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. He had been in declining health since February 1st. Born in Smith Township on January 27, 1925, he was a son of Esli and Helen (Egolf) Shively. he attended school in Smith Township and Churubusco. He spent his most of his life on the Shively family farm until moving into town in 1991 following his retirement. Joe was married on January 4, 1947 to Annabelle Stickler at the Blue River Church of the Brethren Parsonage. She preceded joe in death on January 10, 2010. He was a lifelong Smith Township farmer and was also a bus driver for Smith-Green Community Schools for 44 years. Joe was a life time member of the Blue River Church of the Brethren, where he served as a Deacon, Former Teacher, Superintendent, several administrative boards and was active in visiting the sick and shut-ins. Joe enjoyed telling stories, being with people, and "such like." Joe is survived by a daughter, Robin Plasterer; two sons, Byron Shively and Bradley Shively; three grandchildren, Emily (K.J.) McAleesejergins, Philip (Kristen) Plasterer and Sarah Shivley; a sister-in-law, Lois Shively; two great granddaughters; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, three brothers, David Shively, John Shively, and Charles Shively preceded Joe; two sisters, Virginia Grabner and Marilyn Wright; a half-brother, Ford Shively. Visiting hours will take place at Blue River Church of the Brethren 3040 East 700 North, Columbia City, on Friday, from 2 to 8 p.m., or one hour prior to the service. Services will begin at 2:00 p.m., at Blue River Church of the Brethren on Saturday, with Pastor Craig Alan Myers. Burial will follow at Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Blue River Church of the Brethren Deacon Fund.