James Edward Fenley

James Edward Fenley was born on December 23,1930, in Flint, Michigan. He passed away on January 19, 2024, in Saginaw, Michigan. He was a beloved member of the community and leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for his family.

James dedicated his career to General Motors as a skilled trades supervisor. His commitment to his work was unmatched, and he was highly respected by his colleagues. James's contributions to the company will not be forgotten.

Before beginning his successful career, James selflessly served in the United States Army. His time in the military instilled in him values of discipline and bravery that he carried with him throughout his life.

Outside of work and military service, James enjoyed several hobbies and interests. He was an avid sports fan who found great joy in watching the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers games. Additionally, he loved spending time on the golf course and honing his skills as a golfer.

One of James's proudest accomplishments was serving as a volunteer firefighter in Merrill, Michigan. His bravery and willingness to help others were evident even when he was not working. He also had deep connections within the community as a member of V.F.W. Post 7302 in Hemlock and Fraternal Order of Eagles #497 in Shields. James cherished these memberships and valued the friendships he formed through them.

Family meant everything to him. He was united in marriage with his loving wife Edith (Nieberle) Fenley, while he was in Munich, Germany during the time of his deployment with the United States Army. Their bond was unwavering, making them an inspiration to all who knew them. Edith preceded James in death on July 8, 2019.

James leaves behind his children Sandra and Ted Lincoln, Karen Wiggins, Robert and Pam Fenley, Mary and Nick Morningstar, and Debbie Lawrence; grandchildren Krista and Toby Dorer, Ryan and Heidi McEwen, Zackery and Stephanie Morningstar, Nicole and Omar Reyes, Brent and Kayla McEwen, Samantha Lawrence, Ashley and Joey Karpenko, and Ryan Easterling; and many great-grandchildren. He cherished each moment spent with his family and created countless memories that will be cherished for generations.

Additionally, James is survived by his sisters Doris Kalahar and Beverly and Gary Stevenson; and many nieces and nephews. He had a close relationship with his siblings and treasured the time they spent together.

He was preceded in death by his parents Guy Fenley and Anna Doyle Fenley; son-in-law Jeff Lawrence; granddaughter Sydney Lawrence; brother Robert Fenley; and brother-in-law, Bernie Kalahar.

Cremation has taken place and a family graveside service will be held in the summer, where he will be interred with his wife Edith in Pine Grove Cemetery in Freeland. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements were entrusted to W.L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603. Please visit www.casefuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, sign the guest book, and leave messages for the family.