James D. Sally

James “Jim” Donald Sally, 70, of Sugar Island, passed away peacefully on Aug. 16, surrounded by family. He was born Feb. 16, 1949 to John and Beverly (Griffin) Sally. Jim attended Sault High and was a member of Bay Mills Indian Community. He served in the US Army, stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War.  When Jim returned home he began work as a mechanic, a trade he kept up with until his last days. He was always tinkering with something! He spent many years at Cryderman’s Machine Shop and working for Sault Tribe Construction.

Jim enjoyed a good game of cribbage, old Westerns, and anything that had to do with cars. And he loved Sugar Island.

In March of 1999 Jim married the love of his life, Melissa McKerchie. He welcomed her sons, Brian and Jimmy, as if they were his own.

Jim is predeceased by his parents, sister Carolyn Napoletano, baby brother Kenny Sally, and furkids Scooby, Specks, and Tommy.

He is survived by his wife, Melissa Sally; sons Brian McKerchie and Jimmy Smith; sister Marian (David) Jones of Dayton, OH; brother Tom (Dorothy) Sally of Surprise, AZ; father-in-law and good friend Ken McKerchie of Sault Ste. Marie; sisters-in-law Mary LaJoice and Michelle (David) MacArthur of Sault Ste. Marie; nieces and nephews: Shannon and Jim Jones; Cary and John Napoletano; John, Josh, Ryan, and Aaron Sally; Cheyenne and Aaron LaJoice; Danny Bowerman; Michael McKerchie; Adam and Keith MacArthur; as well as numerous friends he met throughout the years.

Cremation has taken place with the assistance of Gaylord Community Funeral Home. A celebration of life will take place at the Sault VFW on Portage Avenue on Saturday, Aug. 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. Jim wanted to be remembered without tears and with plenty of friends enjoying a meal and raising a glass to him.

The family would like to thank Dr. Maloney of Bay Mills and Dr. Miranda of Sault Ste. Marie for their care of Jim throughout the years.