Jim Michels loved Miles City. Thank you to all who were a part of his life. Our father, the incomparable Jim Michels, was a multidimensional man…a farmer, war pilot, father to his own children, but also many Ag and Farm Shop students, scholar, builder, educator, entrepreneur, flyer, developer, but most of all…a lover of life and, without a doubt, an incredible dancer. He was very proud to be part of Miles City and never failed to mention how much he loved this community and its heritage, especially the Bucking Horse Sale Parade. He lived life to the fullest and worked on his antique tractor projects until the day he died.
James Willard Michels was born March 31, 1923, in Medicine Lake, MT, the last of 12 children born to James and Anna Michels. He passed away unexpectedly from a cerebral hemorrhage on November 6, 2015, in Miles City with family by his side.
He lived on the family homestead west of Reserve and attended schools in Plentywood and Medicine Lake, graduating from Medicine Lake High School. He enjoyed mechanical courses and became an expert, there wasn’t an engine he couldn’t repair. His spare time and vacations were spent working on the ranch and for his brothers Lloyd and Mark at the Medicine Lake Oil Company.
World War II broke out during Jim’s senior year in high school and the following fall he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. After training in the “Liberator” at Walla Walla, WA, he was shipped out to San Francisco with his crew to pick up a new B24. They flew to Bari, Italy. He flew 35 missions with the 15th Air Force, attacking targets in Austria, Poland, Romania, Northern Italy and Yugoslavia. He was very proud of his service and loved sharing his mission stories with friends and family.
After returning home in the fall of 1945, Jim decided to go to Montana State University to major in Agriculture Education. He graduated in 1949 and took employment with the State Department of Public Instruction for three years, and subsequently accepted the position of Vocational Agriculture teacher at Custer County High School in Miles City, where he taught from 1953 to 1980. This is where he became like a second father to many students and was very proud of the fact that the FFA Chapter placed eight State Presidents and a total of 24 State Officers in 25 years.
Jim married Marilyn Niederhauser on April 19, 1944, and they were blessed with three children; Jerry James, Kirk Douglas, and Stephanie Ann. Jim and his two sons ran a custom combining business for several years during the summers around the Miles City area.
Jim’s hobbies included antique collecting, restoration of old tractors and cars, flying, aerial hunting of coyotes, and building floats for parades. He was enthusiastic about education and encouraged many to seek further education.
Among his many accomplishments, Jim was proud to have received the “Teacher of Teachers” award, his B.S. Degree from MSU, his secondary level teaching certificate of 30 years, his record as a dance instructor, his multi-engine commercial pilot’s license, his steam boiler’s certificate, his real estate license, the establishment of the Michels Addition housing development, his 41 years in Kiwanis Club, where he served as President and District Lt. Governor.
Jim’s love for parades enticed him to enter many vehicles in the annual Miles City Bucking Horse Sale Parade, such as his Case 80 Steam Tractor, Rumely Oil Pulls, a 12-foot American Eagle he built from sickle sections, and the Flagship, which he was instrumental in getting people to purchase flags from all 50 states. He was extremely dedicated to the Democrat party and worked tirelessly for their agendas. His love of music and dancing brought him to be a member of the Montana Fiddlers Association and he served on that board for many years. He would say Life without Dance is a Mistake.
Jim is survived by his three children; Jerry (Kay Lynn) Michels of Billings, Kirk Michels of Livingston, and Stephanie (Al) Quammen of Billings, his brother Clair Michels of Fort Collins, CO, granddaughters Madison, Marias, Alison, Ashley Quammen, Jami Lasoya and family, Jennifer Warden and family, and numerous nieces and nephews, and many, many close friends.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday November 13, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday November 14, 2015
Grace Bible Church
Miles City, MT 59301
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors
following funeral service
Saturday November 14, 2015
Eastern Montana Veterans Cemetery
Miles City, MT 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday November 13, 2015
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday November 14, 2015
Grace Bible Church
Miles City, MT 59301
Graveside Service with Full Military Honors
following funeral service
Saturday November 14, 2015
Eastern Montana Veterans Cemetery
Miles City, MT 59301
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Shirley Rolf says
We just visited with him at Leonard Rolf’s funeral and he looked good. We are sure sorry for your loss, it won’t be the same around Miles without him.
Jim and Marilyn May says
We send Jim’s family our love and sympathy. We have very fond memories of FFA and FHA during our high school years, (class of 1967) and all the friendship with Jim for all these years. Marilyn and Jim May
Carmen(Jablinske) and Brad Knutson says
Hugs and our deepest sympathy to Clair, Jerry, Kirk, Steph, and families. Our family has shared a lifetime of adventures with Jim. May he live on in our hearts and great memories. On to the next adventure, Jim, may you find peace.
Joe Whalen says
Miles City has lost one of its most distinguished gentleman and a full measure of class with his passing. Please accept my condolences. Our parades, dance floors and progressive community are greatly diminished without him.
Doug and Kelli Klein says
Condolences and prayers go out to Jerry and Kaylynn and the rest of the Michels family.
Rick & Dee Abbott says
Dear Michels family:
Please accept our sincerest condolences on Jim’s passing. I owe much of my ag knowledge to him and through the years enjoyed reminiscing about the numerous accomplishments of our FFA teams at state and national competitions (Class of ’73). Jim’s presence will be sorely missed! Rest peacefully, my friend & mentor.
Pam (Moths) Nisley & Dave Nisley says
I am so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing Steph – please know I care, and am praying for comfort for all of his precious family and loved ones!
Pat Smith says
Sincere sympathy to all of Jim’s family for your loss. Jim was a great teacher and fellow citizen. He did many things for his friends and community, and will be missed by all. May your many fond memories of Jim bring you comfort in your time of sorrow.
Duane and Carol Nelson Family says
We wish you all our deepest and heartfelt sympathy.
Randy and Kathi Pfeifle says
We are so sorry and saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Michels family, Kirk, Jerry & Kay Lynn, Stephanie, Al, Madison and Marias. Jim was always such a nice man. He will truly be missed.
Annie Michels says
From what I have experienced from uncle Jim. Is a sweet, kind, funny wonderful man. He will be missed greatly by a lot of people. He had a sweet, gentle soul. I know he is in heaven with all our family he has missed for so long. I know they will take care of him up there. Thank you Jesus for receiving our beloved family member.
Harriet & Veryl Jansen says
Jim will be missed by our dancing group. He will be dancing and driving his tractors in heaven. Remember all of the good things and speak of Jim often. We will be unable to attend Jim’s funeral but will keep all of you in our Prayers.
Richard Bonine, Jr says
I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to the entire family.
Mr. Michels was one of 3 mentors I have had in my life. I owe much of what I am to his leadership and persistence in make men out of boys. He was a class act who will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Captain!
Terry Scanlan Hulford says
My deepest sympathy in the loss of Mr. Michels a very wonderful dance teacher. I will never forget whirling around the floor on his steady arm learning to dance & feeling like I was floating on a cloud. He will be greatly missed by all. God Bless and comfort all of his dear family in their time of grief.
Beth Riggs says
We will truly miss Jim as he was a great neighbor, teacher, FFA advisor, community member and dancer. Our condolences to the family and we know that he is now dancing and driving tractors in heaven.
Maureen Larson says
My sincerest sympathy to all of the Michels family. May God comfort you during this difficult time. There are never any words to make it easier but please know that you’re all in my thoughts and prayers.
Chris and Diana Elwood says
Chris and I send our deepest sympathies to the whole family. Jim Michels touched so many lives and brought a lot of happiness to people. I will always remember his smile and twinkling eyes and giving dancing lessons. He was unique and giving person and will be remembered fondly and missed greatly. God bless to all the family.
Harold A. Brown says
To the Michels Family,
Please accept this condolence on Jim’s passing.
Thank you Jim for the time and effort you gave to your Vo-Ag students. I was one of many that you convinced to go to college and graduate with a Ag Ed major.
Teresa Geib Bacon says
I remember him well in HS, my Prayers and Condolences to the Family and Friends
Marcillebutts@yahoo.com Butts says
Was in high school when Jim started at CCHS. What a man. Sorry for your loss. Marcille Butts
Cindy Rost says
My heart and prayers go out to all the family and friends whom Jim has touched. His presence will be missed but his core qualities of loving life and improving our lives through his philosophical perspectives will remain with us always. I am forever thankful.
John, Tricia, Ryan and Kaitlan Warmbrod says
Thoughts and prayers to Jim’s family. Our son Ryan was very fortunate to work with Jim over eleven years. Jim was a wonderful teacher, role model and friend to our son. Our daughter had the opportunity to meet Jim through FFA, and enjoyed his stories. Great memories for both our children and all those who had the pleasure of meeting such a great man.
Barbara Boe Anderson says
I remember Jim from the faculty picnics and the FFA events I attended. He was a friend of my parents, who always spoke highly of him. He contributed a great deal to the Miles City community, and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him! My condolences to the entire Michaels family!
Deb Bartholomew says
To The Michels Family:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Michels touched so many lives in our community and he will be truly missed. Always remember “When A Loved One Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes A Treasure”. He will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. The treasure your memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Vicki Morikawa (was Elmore) says
So sorry for your loss. I spoke to Jim when I was in Miles City last March. He looked great and had that same great, quick smile. Stephanie and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you and yours during this time.
Sharon Kearnes says
I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a passionate defender of progressive values, especially Social Security. His insight and knowledge about these issues will be sorely missed. We have lost another esteem member of the greatest generation.
Sharon Kearnes says
So sorry for your loss. Jim was a tremendous advocate of progressive issues, especially Social Security. We have lost another esteem member of the greatest generation.
Randy & Janet Stanhope says
We are so very sorry for your loss. Please know that you and yours are prayed for at this very difficult time.
BJ Robertson says
Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing he was one of the good one! As an annual visitor to the Bucking Horse Sale Jim’s tractors are always a highlight of the parade and our trip! Jim and his family is always so kind to us strangers letting us join in and share in Jim’s and their joy and love of tractors. Blessed to have met him and appreciate the fond memories he has helped us create. Thoughts and prayers to his family and thank you, Jim!
Kelly Janitell says
What a sweet heart, I will truly miss him. NEVER a dull moment with this one. I am so honored to have spent the time I did with Jim. He along with his family assisted me in honoring him and his LOVE for the Miles City FFA Chapter by creating a Scholarship for our graduating Ag. seniors. Most touching and memorable time was Jim presenting the 1st Scholarship last May with the support of his kids. Jim you touched so many, we will miss you.
Rom & Patti Hedges says
Our thought’s and prayers are with Jim’s family. I feel very fortunate to have known such a wonderful man! He will be missed…
Dick & Cindy Sterns says
Sending warm thoughts to the family of Mr. Michels. I actually only met him once a couple weeks ago while in Miles City visiting my sister. I thought of him as a sincerely kind man with so much worldly knowledge to share. I am so glad I was able to meet him and wish I could have met and visited sooner.
Marlene Cain Rohrer says
My deepest condolences to your family. I will never forget how he taught all us “country kids” to dance in the Lincoln gym. His influence and teaching has stayed with us all our lives. He was indeed a wonderful person.
Wayne & Irma Michels says
We will miss you Uncle Jim, you will always have a special place in our hearts. Always knew we would see you at least once a year for the Bucking Horse Sale. It was like a mini family reunion and a chance to see new found friends and make new ones too. If there were any questions about old tractors and engines you were the “Go to Guy” and always more then willing to help. It is really tough to say goodbye.
Mike & Judy Toennis Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your families.
Alvin and Barb Hirsch says
We were very sad to hear of Jim’s passing. He will be missed by many people in the flying community he was a member of the Miles City Pilots Assoc. for many years and told us many stories about flying..All of his family will be in our prayers.
Gary Worrall says
Sorry to learn of your loss. Miles City won’t be quite the same without Jim. The highlight of the annual Bucking Horse Sale for me is to come back each year to see all the old tractors he restored and maintained.
Carl Zabrocki says
The parades in Miles City will never be the same. Anytime we see and antique tractor we will think fondly of Jim. Happy Trails
Barbara Ashley says
Thoughts and prayers for his family and many friends. Truly a remarkable individual. A genuinely nice guy who was friends with all. I was very glad to have know him.
Steve and Carol Wilcox says
Jim had a great influence on my life as he encouraged me to become a Vocational Agriculture teacher. I was not one of his students but he would make visits to our ranch to see my younger brother and it was then that he would talk to me about the opportunities that I could have in teaching . When I decided to take his advice he helped me more by getting me scholarships and employed me summers in his custom combining business. He also gave me flying lessons in his small airplane . Thanks Jim and you will always have a special place in the hearts of those who knew you .
Pete Stabio says
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Jim had a huge impact on my teaching career. I often sought advice from him and he was always willing to help. Jim was truly one of a kind and I can still see that twisted smile on his face and the twinkle in his eyes as he harassed me. I felt honored when I was made an honorary member of the CCDHS FFA chapter. We had an excellent staff during my tenure at CCDHS and Jim was right at the top.
Berta Cauthron says
Jerry, my thoughts are with you.
Alvin and Jo Raschkow says
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing he was a great guy. The Bucking Horse Parade will not be the same.
Terry Veis says
Jerry and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care.
Terry Veis
Gary Schaff says
A fond memory of Jim occurs frequently as a young teacher seeing those “older dogs” cut a rug, laugh, chat, joke, and have compassion for all VoAg teachers across the state as well as the students/FFA members they molded into todays leaders/producers. Jim conducted a number of inspections for Montana Seed Growers in the eastern part of the state as a summer occupation (as if he needed more to do) around his teaching retirement years. His smile and friendly greeting to friends and strangers is a profound etching in my life. Bless him and his family for sharing his talents, time and energy….. Heaven has a much bigger dance floor!
Leah Mann says
So wonderful to see all the love for one of my favorite people and families. The Michels family always made me feel part of the family, I feel so honored to have had that privilege. Jim liked to tell me that he loved me, even though I was a republican, and always with a twinkle in his eye. The world lost a very caring, loving man who loved life, family, tradition and America. Much love to my friend, Stephanie, brothers Kirk and Jerry, and two beautiful girls Madison and Maris.
Nik Muggli says
Jim was a great man. He was the next door neighbor to my Granny June Higggins. As a kid he would let us climb and play on all his old equipment. Occasionally starting one up for us. Some of my fondest childhood memories were spent at his pool. He will be missed by many.
Don Lee says
Jerry,
What a great obituary, a real tribute to your father. My condolences to you and family.
Don
Chet Holmes says
So sorry to hear of Jim passing I just seen him last week. Always a hand shake when I would see him. He will be missed.
Chet
Bob Robinson (Houston, TX) says
All my sympathy to my friend Jerry Michels, as well as to his brother and sister, for the loss of their father.
Dave and Vickie Gunderson says
To all of Jim’s family, we were so very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a super guy, definitely one of a kind. He played a big role in both of our high school years, and we were forever grateful for everything he did, not only for us, but all the students who had the privilege of his guidance while walking the halls of CCHS. We will miss seeing him in the Bucking Horse Parade, and our frequent encounters at the Airport Inn. Jim, may you rest in peace ..job well done here on earth..)))
Tom and Lillian Ostendorf says
Our condolences to the family. So many memories of FFA trips etc. One of my first experiences was a judging trip to the Bozeman Winter fair . One of the boys noticed the tach on the old Chrysler and wondered how high it would go. We were going up the Bozeman pass , a little grin followed by shifting to second we found out! Jim lived life to the fullest and never missed the chance to challenge his students. He will be missed.
Doug Moore says
Kirk, Jerry and Stephanie, my condolences to each of you. As a kid, I felt I was a small part of your family; and your father was larger than life in my eyes. I loved the twinkle in his eyes and the smirk he would give you when he caught you doing or saying something stupid. I would be there celebrating his life with you if I wasn’t out of town visiting family. Hope to see you all soon, Doug
Doug and Teri Zook says
Dear Jerry, Kay Lynn, and family:
We were surprised to hear of Jim’s death ~ Guess we thought he was one of those who’d live forever (HA:)…
Was thinking of what an impact he had on Miles City ~ also of his dancing, which we knew he loved ~ and in high school when we knew him as a teacher.
Mr. Stabio his it on the nose with his reference to the “twinkle in Jim’s eye.:)
What a lovely obituary. Please accept our sincere condolences in your loss.
Jeff Witcher says
Dear Stephanie,
I’m horribly late in reading about your father’s passing. I remember him being bigger than life. I remember he taught my dad whom I hardly knew because of his early passing at age 29. I seem to remember that you were the apple of your father’s eye. I have many fond memories of Miles City, the wonderful Class of ’76, and our work together as sophomores on a float for some parade??? I am retiring today as the band director in White Deer, Texas. I hope life has brought you much happiness. I pray that the Prince of Peace has and will bring you comfort in the passing of your dear father. He meant for families to be together forever–this gives me great hope to see my parents on the other side. God bless you Stephanie.