Ishpeming, Michigan-Father James Challancin, pastor of St. Joseph Church, Ishpeming passed away Sunday, February 3, 2013. Father was born September 16, 1941 in Crystal Falls, Michigan to Paul and Rose (Stefani) Challancin.

Father is survived by five cousins, Theresa Cristan, Charlotte Bloom, Betty DeSmit, Sharon Balius (Lou) and Marion Erikson (John) and several second generation cousins beginning with Steffie, David (Mary Jo), and Debbie DeSmit, Jeff, Jill, & Jerry Stafani, Kim, John, Beth & Jim Erickson. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Edward.

Fr. Jim will be received at 2:00pm E.S.T. on Thursday, February 7th at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ishpeming where visitation will be held until 8:00pm and again on Friday from 9:00am until 11:00am. A Parish Wake Vigil will be held at 7:00pm Thursday.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am E.S.T. Friday, February 8th, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Archbishop, Alexander K. Sample as celebrant with Deacon Steve Schaffer assisting and priests of the Diocese of Marquette to concelebrate.

At Father's request no flowers, he wishes donations to the St. John’s Medical Center, Matamba, Tanzania. Donations may be made through St. Joseph Church.

The funeral service recording, when it becomes available, can be heard by clicking here.