James Yaegel

James Yaegel, born on August 25, 1950, breathed his last and went to be with Jesus on November 2, 2024. He leaves behind his beloved wife Mary Ellen Yaegel, whom he cherished deeply.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Gertrude Yaegel and father-in-law Al Read. He is survived by his beloved wife Mary Ellen Yaegel (nee Read) and mother-in-law Muril Read who will miss him dearly.

His children, Jim (Lisa) Yaegel, Stacey (Steve) Hatte, Jeremy (Lyndsay) Pearson, Matt (Kim) Pearson, and Jonah (Jessi) Pearson will hold him in their hearts. His grandchildren, Andrew & Brian Yaegel; Davis & Jase Hatte; Jacob & Lucas Pearson; Chloe Pearson and Zac & Ashling Switzer; and Leo, Logan & Elliot Pearson loved their special Poppi.

His siblings, Tom (Margie) Yaegel, Denny (Helen) Yaegel, Tessie (Jay) Hayden, Lonny (Theresa) Yaegel, Jean Ann (Michael) Jackson, Lisa (Jeff) Martin and Lori Yaegel and in-laws Jeff (Janet) Read, Kathi Walling, Linda (Phil) Fightmaster and Lisa Shafer will all remember him as a man who loved his family, his horses, and his dog, Lizzie, a source of joy and companionship in his life.

Though he worked at Ford for 46 years, throughout his life, Jim dedicated himself to serving the horse racing community, offering his ministry, skills and love of racing to all those he met. His connection with the racing world was evident in his role as both a trainer and an advocate for the welfare of horsemen. His commitment to improving the lives of those in the industry left a lasting impact on many. As a devoted sponsor of the Race Track Chaplaincy of America, a respected Thoroughbred trainer, and the former president of the Horseman's Benevolent Protective Association Jim hoped to improve the conditions for folks working on the backside as well as for the horses.

A funeral Mass to honor Jim’s memory will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. The services will provide an opportunity for all who knew and loved him to come together and reflect on the life of a man who touched so many with his kindness and dedication. Though he may no longer walk among us, Jim's legacy will live on in the hearts of those he inspired and the lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.

Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Friday November 8, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church 5890 Buckwheat Road Milford, Ohi. Visitation at church starting at 9:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers donations may be directed to Race Horse Chaplaincy of America: www.kychaplaincy.org/donate.