James David McCartney

James David McCartney, 69, passed away on August 28, 2025, in Ottawa Lake, Michigan. He was born on June 13, 1956, In Oregon Ohio and graduated from Van Wert High School in 1974. From a young age, Jim developed a love for horses. He worked odd jobs around his hometown to save up and purchase his first pony, Blaze, beginning a lifelong passion. Like many young boys, Jim dreamed of being a cowboy—and he went on to live that dream.

Jim was the proud owner of Rainmaker Stables and spent more than 40 years in the horse business. His passion for horses was sparked early on by his father and uncle, who were avid horsemen, whether showing at the fair or racing at the local track. Over the years, Jim trained and showed calf-roping horses to many titles. One of his true loves was helping, and coaching his children, and students. No matter the circumstances or situation, he always had a word of Positivity to encourage those around him. Beyond his accomplishments, Jim had a larger-than-life personality, a laugh that could fill up a room and he never met a stranger

Jim is survived by his beloved children, Cody (Cheyanne) McCartney, Cheyanne (Austin) Lake, Kathryn McCartney, and Jameson McCartney; his sisters Jane (Steve) Bowen, Teresa (Tim) Davis, and Molly McCartney; two wonderful grandsons Beckham and Weston Lake; two nephews; and four nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Phyllis McCartney, and his brother, Rick McCartney. Visitation will be held at Reeb Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Crossroads Community Church. Donations can be made in Memory of Jim to Promedica Children's Hospital, Child Life Fund.

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