Joseph B. Channells

Joseph Bart Channells passed away unexpectedly January 28, 2025, at Bronson Methodist Hospital.

 Joe was born on April 12, 1960, in Plainwell, MI to George and Pauline (Troff) Channells. As one of five kids Joe grew up in Martin, MI, where he learned to love animals, hunt, fish, and survive three older siblings. 

 Upon 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. On November 28, 1981, Joe married Terry Nickerson. During their marriage Joe was helped by his father as he custom built a home for he and Terry, and 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. 

 Those who knew Joe knew that past the prickly exterior he would put off, he had a heart of gold and was incredibly intelligent. 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 always to be 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, and they knew he loved them dearly.

 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 is 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.

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.