James R. Nitz

James R. Nitz (Jim), 86, of Sebewaing MI, passed away at St. Mary's Hospital on August 31, 2024.  He was surrounded in love by his children and grandchildren, while listening to his favorite classic country songs.

Jim was born November 3, 1937 to the union of Robert Nitz and Clara H. (Lenz) Nitz.  He was raised in Sebewaing, attended and was confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church, and graduated from Sebewaing High School, Class of 1956. Jim served in the U.S. Army for 3 years.

James R. enjoyed a successful 50+ year career in construction, finally 'retiring' well into his 70's.  In his early years, Jim worked for a short time at General Motors and Michigan Sugar Company before joining his valued mentor and friend, Carl Rummel, learning carpentry. He eventually moved on to his own business, mentoring his own sons and many others in the trade.

Jim seemed to know someone everywhere he went, and really loved to CHAT – a lifelong charmer and very strong, proud man.  Many family and friends will fondly cherish the (often early morning) phone calls for Birthdays, Valentine's Day, New Years and more!  He had special bonds with those who consider him a '2nd Dad'.

James is survived by his loving children:  Connie (Dick) Birchmeier; Karen (Mike) Flintoft; Michael (Ruth) Nitz; Jamie (Sean) Nitz; Jody (Sara) Nitz; and Justin (Monica) Nitz; grandchildren Kristy (Larry) Dumond; Kasey Flintoft; Kayla (Tyler) Boylen; Maddox Nitz; Collin Nitz; Colton Nitz; Leah Nitz; and Great-Grandchildren Julia Dumond and Thad Dumond.  Also surviving are his dear sister, Lorrine Kuhl, and brother, Jerry (Rhonda) Nitz; several cousins, nieces and nephews – along with a large community of lifelong friends in Michigan, Florida and beyond.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Nancy P. Nitz; his parents Robert and Clara H. Nitz; sister, Barbara Nitz Reidel; and many friends that he's now chatting up a storm with!

The family extends heartfelt thanks to staff at Covenant Health Care and St. Mary's Hospital, for taking special care of Dad during his month-long hospitalization.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Juengel-Mellendorf Funeral Home in Sebewaing from 2pm-8pm.

Funeral Service will be Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Visitation will begin at 10am at the church until the time of service at 11am. Pastor Michael Boyer will be officiating. A military service will follow the church service. Burial will be private at St. Peter's Lutheran Cemetery in Bach.

Memorial donations may be given to Leader Dogs for the Blind (leaderdog.org).