James M. Helland, age 62 of Defiance, peacefully passed away on  Saturday, July 6, 2024 at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center. He was born on September 1, 1961 to the late James and Joan (Melczak) Helland in Toledo, Ohio. James was a 1980 graduate of Defiance High School, and was a member of Defiance Eagles #372 and Moose Lodge #2094. He worked for several years as an auto mechanic. James was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and he enjoyed building and painting model cars. James will be greatly missed by his family and many good friends. James is survived by his children, Zach (Tiffany) Helland of Defiance, Ashley Helland of Ottawa, OH, and Aaron (Samantha) Helland of Ferndale, MI, his granddaughters, Arianna and Natalee Helland, his significant other, Pam Sigler of Defiance, and his sister, Jackie (Tom) Pixler of Defiance. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Jodi Shong. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024 from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A private burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery, with a luncheon to  follow at Defiance Eagles. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to CHP Defiance Area Hospice Center. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.