James Carlton, 88

James J. Carlton, age 88, of Paw Paw, formerly of Marcellus, passed away peacefully on  Saturday, April 1, 2017 surrounded by his family.
He was born December 19, 1928 in Galesburg, MI the son of Wayne Lyle and Gertrude Floris (Trisket) Carlton. On January 1, 1950 in Three Rivers, he married Anita Ann Davis who survives.
James was a loving father and always put his family first, in addition to that, he was a past Master with the Marcellus Masonic Lodge and owned and operated Carlton Hardware in Marcellus. He was also a member of the Yellow Rock Square Dancing Group. A favorite pastime was playing pinochle with family and friends.
Surviving besides his wife Anita are two daughters, Debra Breseman of Marcellus and Regina (John) Davidson of Canton, MI; three sons, Reed (Theresa) Carlton of Cassopolis, Bradley (Linda) Carlton of Dowagiac, and Steven (Linda) Carlton of Three Rivers; eleven grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchilden. He was preceded in death by his brother, David T. Carlton, son-in-law Wilber Breseman and one sister Phyllis Johansen.
Cremation has taken place and memorial services will be held at a later date.
In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Marcellus Band Program or Great Lakes Caring Hospice, Kalamazoo.