James Frank Siegel

Born March 15, 1935, in Andalusia, Alabama. James was the son of Frank and Pearl (Ward). James came to this area from Fort Dix, New Jersey. James retired from the United States Army as a Master Sergeant (E-8) after serving 23 years, from 1953-1976. His service included tours in the Vietnam Conflict. He was stationed in multiple stateside locations, as well as Hawaii, Korea and Germany. While being stationed in Germany he trained Special Forces’ soldiers and later served as a U.S. Army Recruiter. He received numerous military decorations to include the Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. He then retired from the Southwest Florida Water Management District after 20 years as a small engine mechanic, to include servicing airboats. James enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and bringing joy to everyone with his homemade greeting cards. James loved to share stories of the past and to make more memories with his children and grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Willa Dean of 56 years; daughter, Belinda; brother, Albert Siegel; and niece, Rachel Siegel. He is survived by his loving wife, Judith of 10 years; his daughters, Cheryl S. Siegel of Tallahassee, FL and Dorinda J. (Randal) Mueller of Alton, IL; his grandchildren, Jacqueline (Brandon) Uhler, Alexis Mueller, Alex Kio, Jess Kio, and Tracy Kio; his great-grandchildren, Danny and Harper Whitaker, Connor and Gavin Uhler, and Demitri Cruse; sister-in-law, Jane Siegel of Tampa, FL; and nephew, Jason (Tina) Siegel of Parma, Ohio.

A Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00-11:30am,Thursday, January 11, 2024 at Merritt Funeral Home - Spring Hill, 4095 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill, Florida 34609, where Funeral Services begin at 11:30am. A Graveside Service will follow at 1:00pm at Florida National Cemetery, 6504 SW 102nd Ave., Bushnell, FL 33513.