James W. Curran Sr., age 93, of Monroe, died Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Pleasant View Nursing Home. Jim was born on November 28, 1932 to Daniel and Agnes (Satterlee) Curran. He graduated from Monroe High School and served two years in the U.S. Navy. He married the love of his life Ann Silver on April 17, 1956 in Belleville.  Together, Jim and Ann made cheese at the Spece Factory from 1957 – 1995. Jim was proud to be an “Irish” Swiss Cheesemaker and received many rewards for his Copper Kettle Swiss. He was active in the Zilmer-Riley American Legion Post #84 where he had served as post commander, Knights of Columbus, served as President of National Historic Cheesemaking Museum, and was a Green County champion cheesemaker in 1984.

Jim is survived by two sons, Jon (Toni) Curran and Shorty Curran; grandchildren, Erica (Dave) Wand, Jonny (Dani) Curran, and Joanna (Andrew) Neff. He is further survived by his special friend, Donna Douglas; and sister-in-law, Janice Curran. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Ann, on November 7, 2014; daughter-in-law, Susan Curran; brother, John Curran; sister, Bonnie (Spencer) Okerland; and half-brothers, Phil and Mike Curran.

Private graveside services will be held in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Gratiot. There will be no public visitation or services. The family requests that no flowers or cards be sent. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is assisting the family.