Ishpeming, MI- James E. "Roxie" Lawson, age 97, passed away at 1:39 pm on January 25, 2019, in the loving care of his daughters at his home on Euclid St. in Ishpeming.

Jim was born to Lois and James Lawson on January 24, 1922, in Ishpeming's North Lake Location.  He retired as Vice President and Trust Officer of the Peninsula Bank in 1990.  Jim served in the U.S. Army during World War II with the 10th Mtn. Division in Italy where he earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.

Jim is survived by his daughters - Leslie Lawson of Washington, D.C., Cindy Lawson of Ishpeming and Roxanne (Michael) Palinski of Levelgreen, PA.  He is also survived by his grandchildren - Kate (Christopher) Hughes, Emma Palinski and Max Palinski and great-grandchildren - Adeline, Julian, Oliver and Eleanor Hughes.  Also surviving are his sister Marion "Dolly" Lindberg, brother Keith Lawson, both of Ishpeming and a brother Douglas (Dorothy) Lawson of Jackson.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Helen "Sis" (Sundblad) and a sister, Shirley Crittenton of Orlando, FL.

Jim was an athlete who excelled at ski jumping, softball, baseball and bowling.  He is enshrined in the U. P. Bowlers Hall of Fame.

The family will greet relatives and friends from 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm on Wednesday, January 30, 2019, at the Wesley United Methodist Church in Ishpeming.  Memorial services will immediately follow at 2:30 pm with the Rev. Matthew Osborne officiating.  Interment will take place at the Ishpeming cemetery at a later date.  A coffee social will follow in the church hall where cake and ice cream will be served.

Military honors will be accorded by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 380.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Wesley United Methodist Church, 801 Hemlock St., Ishpeming, MI 49849 or The Salvation Army, 222 E. Division St., Ishpeming, MI 49849.

Jim's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.

We will always remember his beautiful blue eyes, sweet smile and uncomplaining nature.  He was a treasure to his family.

A recording of Jim's service may be listened to here.