Joseph Bart Channells of Martin died Tuesday, Jan. 28, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was 64.
Joe was born April 12, 1960, in Plainwell to George and Pauline (Troff) Channells. As one of five children Joe grew up in Martin, where he learned to love animals, hunt, fish, and survive three older siblings.
After graduating from Martin High School, Joe briefly attended Michigan Technical University before returning home and starting an almost 40 year long career with Parker Hannifan.
Joe married Terry Nickerson on Nov. 8, 1981 During their marriage Joe was helped by his father as he custom built a home for his family and they were blessed with their children, Dustin and Heather.
Though their marriage didn’t last, their love for their kids never wavered. Joe loved playing sports with them, going to movies, and their annual trip to Michigan’s Adventure. He also shared with them his love of animals, the outdoors and hunting.
There was very little he didn’t know how to fix or build, and if he didn’t know, he would learn it. He was counted on for his razor-sharp quick wit that left people laughing, and he loved his family deeply. Spoiling his granddaughters might have become his favorite pastime.
Joe is survived by son Dustin (Keri) Channells; daughter Heather (Billy) Bourdo; former wife Terry; brother George (Cathy) Channells; sister Brook Kievit; and granddaughters Isabella, Avery, Haley and Cora.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Pauline; brothers Rodney and Todd Channells; brother-in-law Thomas Kievit; and former parents-in-law William and Joyce Nickerson.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been decided and will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Joe’s family instead asks for donations to be made in his name to the National Fabry Disease Foundation, or the American Heart Association.
