James Leo Mavis

James “Jim” Leo Mavis

Saginaw, Michigan

Loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend passed away Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at Hoyt Nursing and Rehab, at the age of 85 years. James was born November 15, 1937, in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of the late Leo and Leah (Wilham) Mavis. He met the love of his life, Lena Wagner, in 1959, while on a blind date. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on August 13, 1960; she survives him. Jim retired from Saginaw Grey Iron Foundry following many years of loyal and dedicated service, he then worked for Alpine Truck Stop following his retirement.  The role of his lifetime was to be a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Jim was a longtime and faithful member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Saginaw, and actively volunteered his time serving the congregation as an usher and working side by side with his wife for funeral luncheons. In his free time, he enjoyed taking trips to the casino. Though he loved to bother his family, he will forever be remembered for his love of family, kindness, and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories.

Surviving besides his wife, Lena, are their children: Laura (Lawrence) Long, Tracy (Mark) Scheffler, Mary (Robert Thayer) Mavis; grandchildren: Lawrence (Rachel) Long, Michael (Amanda) Long, Christopher (Hannah) Long, Tammy (Joe Todd) Scheffler, Scott Scheffler; great-grandchildren: Nathan and Isaac Long, and Kennedy Harris; sister, Shirley Sikora; brother-in-law, Frank Browning. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.  

He was preceded in death by a two sisters, Patricia Browning and Kay (Richard) Katz.

A memorial service will be held 12:00 noon Friday May 26, 2023, at the W.L. Case and Company Funeral Home 201 N. Miller Rd. Rev. Charles Buckhahn will officiate with burial to follow in St. Andrews Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the memorial service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider Bethlehem Lutheran Church.