James W. Staercke, 89, of Denton, TX, passed away on Monday, February 3, 2014. He was born May 21, 1924 in Dayton, OH to William A. and Alberta D. Staercke. He graduated from high school in Lapeer, Michigan and served in the US Navy during World War II and the Korean Conflict.

Jim "Ol' Jazz" Staercke has been a drummer for nearly 80 years and has played with numerous Jazz and Dixieland bands during that time. Music was his passion and he played in the church orchestra at Trietsch Memorial United Methodist Church for many years, as well.

Mr. Staercke was preceded in death by his wife, Helene M. Staercke, in 2008. He is survived by his son, James W. Staercke II and his wife, Darlene of Auburn Hills, MI; son David A. Staercke and his wife, Mary of Southlake, TX; and daughter, Doris H. Jezewski and her husband, Douglas of Denton, TX; 7 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service is planned for 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2014 in the Chapel of DeBerry Funeral Directors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Music Ministry at either Trietsch Memorial United Methodist Church or the United Methodist Church in Dryden, MI.