James Raymond Sancrant Sr.

James Raymond Sancrant Sr., 84, of Petersburg, Michigan, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 7, 2026, under the care of his family.

Born at home on March 29, 1942, in Petersburg, Michigan, Jim was the son of Lester and Marie (Bofia) Sancrant. Raised on a farm, he developed a lifelong appreciation for hard work, the outdoors, and the satisfaction of a job well done. He graduated from Ida High School in 1960, where he was an accomplished athlete in both football and track. As a sophomore, he set a school record in the mile run that stood for many years.

Jim worked for Jeep Corporation for approximately 40 years as a millwright, retiring in 2001. During his later years with the company, he also served as an elected chief steward for UAW Local 12, representing his fellow workers. His mechanical abilities extended well beyond the workplace. A self-described “jack of all trades, master of none,” Jim could fix just about anything, although those who knew him might dispute the “master of none” part. All he needed was the right tools and someone willing to hold the flashlight—preferably someone who didn’t mind being told, sometimes rather loudly, exactly where to point it.

An avid outdoorsman, Jim loved hunting, fishing, trapping, and mushroom hunting. Whether working on the farm, repairing something others had given up on, or spending time in the woods, he was happiest when putting his hands and resourcefulness to work. Fearless by nature, Jim approached life with determination and a willingness to take on almost any challenge. He also enjoyed following college football and golf, shared interests that kept him connected with his son Jim and grandson Glen despite the miles between them. Above all, he loved his family intensely.

Jim married Kay Tucker in 1963, and they later divorced. Jim shared a loving partnership of many decades with Sharon Post, who remained an important part of his life’s story.

Jim is survived by his children, Brenda Dudash, Lisa (the late Chuck) Szyperski, and Dr. James (Abbie) Sancrant Jr.; and by Dawn (Mike) Kruzel and Angie (Mike) Healy, whom he loved and regarded as daughters.

He is also survived by his siblings, Clarence (the late Marilyn) Sancrant, Melvin (Gena) Sancrant, Virgie (the late Charles) Neshkoff, and Linda (Gary) Pollock; his grandchildren, Amanda (Mike), Rachel (Ryan), David, Michael, Glen, Heather, Margaret (Mike), Ryan, Harrison, Alexander, Elliott, Zachary, Nicholas, and Brooklyn; and 15 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his former wife, Kay Tucker; his daughter, Mary Kay Tuller; and three brothers and three sisters.

Friends and family are invited to gather at Capaul Funeral Home in Ida, Michigan, on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until the memorial service at 4:00 p.m. Cremation has taken place.