James Thomas

JAMES A. THOMAS, 65, of Mancelona, died on March 2, 2010 at Munson Medical Center. James was born on May 31, 1944 in Manitowoc, WI, the son of James H. and Violet M. (Pulkinen) Thomas. James earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Education, from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI. He began his teaching career in Deckerville, MI, then went on to teach Industrial Arts for Mancelona Public Schools for over 30 years. He had been a Mancelona resident since 1968 where he was involved in the Mancelona Education Foundation and Recovery Inc. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, especially fishing, hunting, skiing and biking. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Gideon's International, the Mancelona United Methodist Church and volunteered at the Antrim County Animal Shelter. On August 20, 1966 in Ishpeming, Michigan, he married Susan Holman who survives. Also surviving are a daughter Lori (Scott) Kirby of Alden, Jeff Thomas of San Francisco, CA., two granddaughters, Lauren and Julia Kirby of Alden and a sister Judie Born of Brookfield, WI. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a granddaughter Lillian Violet Kirby. A memorial gathering celebrating his life will take place on Fri., March 12 from 6-9 p.m. at his residence, 307 S. Danforth, Mancelona, MI, 49659. A memorial service will take place on Sat., March 13 at 1:00 p.m. at the Mancelona Middle School Gymnasium. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mancelona United Methodist Church or to the Mancelona Education Foundation. Arrangements are being handled by the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign our online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.