James Daniel Michaud, 39, of Lancaster, passed away after a brief illness, Saturday, October 7, 2023, surrounded by his family. Born in Bristol, PA, he was the son of James H. Jr., and Kimberly A. (West) Michaud. He was the devoted husband of Lauren (DeMoss) Michaud and father of Elowen Michaud.

A graduate of Pine Grove High School, class of 2002, he went on to obtain his bachelor of science in education from Kutztown University, class of 2007. He earned a master of education degree from Alvernia University, class of 2014. He was a dedicated Social Studies teacher for Manheim Township Middle School for 15 years, and coached junior high wrestling for over 10 years. James was much beloved by students and staff.

James' drive and determination were admired by those who knew him. He excelled in anything he set his mind to. He will be remembered as the owner and operator of Michaud Iron and Wood Design. He routinely collaborated with his father, Jim Michaud, owner of Iron Jim Design on wooden furniture and metal signage. James is responsible for propelling both businesses to success in Lancaster County and beyond completing numerous projects for residential and commercial clients, including signage and tables for Wyndridge Farms, tables at Per Diem and the reception desk at Treadhouse, Lancaster.

In his free time, James enjoyed being outdoors; hunting, fishing, and archery, working out at Treadhouse, Lancaster, and spending time with friends and family. James was an avid Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia Phillies, and Penn State wrestling fan. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, Lauren. A highlight of their travels was kayaking together on Lake Como, Italy. James spent many memorable summers vacationing with his family in Sea Isle City, NJ and Long Beach Island, NJ.

His love will live on in his wife Lauren and their daughter, Elowen; his parents; a sister, Eliza Rae Michaud, wife of Dominick Russo, of Northampton, PA; niece, Isabella, and nephew, Carmen; maternal grandmother, Kathleen West of Manahawkin, NJ; and his aunts and uncles, Holly Lamb (wife of Ed Lamb), Denise Kralle (wife of Tom Kralle), Patricia Gansrich (wife of Brad Gansrich), and John West (husband of Kathy West). James was preceded in passing by his maternal grandfather, John West, and paternal grandparents, James Sr., and Fay Michaud.

A viewing will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023, at Worship Center, 2384 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, from 5 PM – 7 PM. An additional viewing will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Worship Center from 9 AM – 11 AM, with a funeral service honoring James, beginning at 11 AM. Burial will be private.

Originally the Go Fund Me was set up to help the family with costs incurred by James' treatments, but following his passing, his family plans to use the funds to give back to the Manheim Township School Community in James' memory. Contributions towards this effort can be made through the Go Fund Me page .