James Albert Dibble, age 96, of Beaver Creek Twp, MI passed away peacefully on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025 at Northern Pines Assisted Living.

James was born on December 1, 1929 in Adrian, MI to his parents Clarence and Lucille (Wilnow) Dibble. James went into the United States Airforce out of school when he was just 17 years old with his parents permission. He was stationed in Savannah, GA where he met the love of his life. He married the love of his life, Elinor "Jean" Evans on September 1, 1950. He was then stationed in Puerto Rico, Goosebay Labrador, Columbus, OH, and Cheyenne, WY until his retirement from the air force. He moved back to northern Michigan where he worked in Gaylord at Standard Products for 17 years then retired again. He spent the rest of his time with his wife and children at their home in Roscommon, MI. He and Jean were married for 72 years before her passing in 2023. 

James was literally one of the most well known and skilled welders in the United States Airforce and beyond. His knowledge of mechanics and thinking outside the box made him a uniquely useful man to have around for fixing anything, literally anything. He was very valuable to the military because he kept the old planes going, fabricating new parts and tools to make the parts.

James was the best dad, father-in-law, and grandpa that there was. He was an amazing man with an ever present kind and gentle demeanor. He was a strong man. He was generous and helpful, always. He was always slipping his grand kids money or helping them out however he could. He was always giving candy to the grandchildren and treats to the dogs.

James's presence will be missed deeply by his family, which includes his children, James (Marsha) Dibble, Jr. of Cheyenne, WY, Michael (Gail) Dibble of Elmira, MI, and Debra (Gary) Beckwith of Grayling, MI; grandchildren, David Neil Dibble, Keri (Scott) Peacock, Aaron (Sarah) Coon, Cody (Shelby) Dibble, Mark Beckwith, Brian Beckwith, and Alyssa (Joey) Steadman; great-grandchildren, Tommy, Sammy and Emma; sister, Judy Powelke; and many nieces and nephews.

James is preceded in death by his wife, Elinor "Jean" (Evans) Dibble; parents, Clarence and Lucille Dibble; and 3 brothers and one sister.

A graveside burial with Military Honors will take place in the spring, June 6, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Beaver Creek Cemetery where James will be laid to rest next his wife.

Condolences can be shared with James's family at www.sorensonlockwood.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.