James L. Kierein

He was born Thursday, January 25, 1940, in Lawrence, Michigan, the son of Leo and Norma (Shoop) Kierein. James was a beloved teacher at Wilson Middle School for nearly thirty years. He taught Art and was a Substitute Teacher. James was an avid artist; he loved working with pastels, charcoal, oils, air brush, pottery, and carvings. He also taught adult art classes at the Minnetrista Center. James was a "jack of all trades". He built several garages, a go-kart, and even a sailboat that he sailed on the Muncie Reservoir.

Survivors include his wife, Loretta Marie (Stock) Kierein; children, Anne Cloud, Michael Kierein, and Patricia (fiancé, Andrew Manulides) Skorupa; brothers, John (wife, Serena) Kierein, and Tom Kierein; sister, Marti (husband, Kenny) Lund; twelve grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter; many nieces; nephews; and cousins.

His parents, Leo and Norma Kierein; brother, Richard Kierein; and a sister, Mary Yost, preceded him in death.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. Monday, February 28, 2022, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 2300 West Jackson Street, Muncie, Indiana 47303 with Father Coady Owens officiating. Entombment will follow in Elm Ridge Memorial Park Mausoleum.

Family and friends may call from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Monday at St. Mary Catholic Church.

Elm Ridge Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elmridgefuneralhome.com