Richard Owen James

After almost three decades rising to the challenge of Parkinson’s Disease, Richard James of Petoskey, passed away on August 16, 2019.

Richard was welcomed to this life by Ruth and Owen James during a snowstorm in Flint, Michigan on November 13, 1940. Word has it that he was curious and full of adventure growing up and those traits stayed with him for a lifetime. He was always ready for a challenge: Scouts, “Y” activities, solo long distance bicycling, sitting at a southern lunch counter, working for protection of the environment and prompting technological efforts in this endeavor. He was a voracious reader and liked sharing his book collections. He was interested in printing and developed graphic arts skills which led to a business producing maps and charts mostly for scientific presentations and journals. After graduating from U of M, Richard served at 5th army headquarters, then returning to Ann Arbor, where with his wife, Mary, they raised two curious and loving sons who are now nurturing those traits in their own children. Life goes on.

The family always enjoyed going up north. After retirement Richard and Mary were able to permanently stay “at the lake”.

Richard is survived by his wife Mary; his sons Christopher (Dorota) of San Diego, California and Timothy (Heather) of Manitowoc, Wisconsin; his grandchildren: Philip, Bailey, Elizabeth, and Alexander; his favorite aunt Roberta of Inverness, Florida; his sisters-in-law Ardath and Ann; and his nieces, nephew, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother Fred.

As Richard was losing his strength, he had both physical and social support from the Friendship center in Petoskey, Vital Care Adult Day Care, Bay Bluffs extended medical care as well as home caregivers and friends. Our family thanks all of you who often went the extra mile not only to provide care but also to help him have fun. You are jewels.

Family will gather to remember Richard’s life at a date to still be determined.

Arrangements are in the care of Stone Funeral Home, Inc.

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