James Ibbotson, Jr.

James Ibbotson, Jr., 89, of Decatur, passed away peacefully in his sleep, Monday, March 16, 2020 at his home in Decatur. He was born November 10, 1930 in Dowagiac to James L. and Iva Irene (McCleary) Ibbotson. The family will receive guests from 5-7pm, Friday, March 20, 2020 at Newell Chapel, 83313 M-51, Decatur. A celebration of life will be held at 11am, Saturday, March 21, 2020 at the funeral home proceeding to Harrison Cemetery for burial. On May 28, 1955 James married Pauline Parish in Decatur and they were married for 61 years before her passing in 2017. For 30 years, James worked at Consolidated Sealed Power in maintenance and then as a supervisor. After, he opened Ibby’s Bait Shop in Decatur, where’s it’s stood open for the past 30 years. Ibby was known for providing excellent bait and tackle but also a good conversation and a great laugh. James is survived by his children, Cathy (David) Slavings, James William Ibbotson, Diane Bowman, Patricia O’Shay, Thomas Ibbotson, and Anne Bushore; 27 grandchildren; 55 great grandchildren; four great great grandchildren; and his siblings, Marion, Barb, and Tom. He is preceded in death by his wife, Pauline; his son, Paul Benjamin; his siblings, Floyd, Bert, Jenny, Betty, Madge, .Pearl, Harriet, and Hannah; and his parents.