Republic – James A. Lombardo, age 61, of Republic passed away on Monday November 30, 2009 while under the loving care of his family and the Upper Peninsula Home Health and Hospice.


James was born December 12, 1947 in Benton Harbor, MI the son of the late James and Ardys (Green) Lombardo. He was a graduate of the Benton Harbor High School, Class of 1966. James served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War where he learned his trade. James was a well respected craftsman, having built a tool & die business, Progressive Machining Inc. from the ground up. He retired in 2003 due to his health, but at that time followed his dream of living in the Upper Peninsula. He found his greatest happiness in the time spent with his wife and special friends while in Republic and could often be found tinkering in his shop on projects of his own or for others. He will always be remembered by his children as a man who led by example. James was always a joy to be around and the world is now a sadder place without him. He was a member of the Republic United Methodist Church.


Survivors include his wife of 24 years Jacalyn Lombardo of Republic, three children – Michelle M. Lombardo of Atlanta, GA, Deanna L. (Thomas) Roy of Pulaski, WI and Jason T. Lombardo of Sodus, MI, a sister Marietta (Phillip) LoVerde of Helotes, TX, a brother Tom (Mary) Lombardo of Ironwood, MI, a sister-in-law Jill Thielbert of Burlington, IA, 4 grandsons – Steven Roy, Nathan Roy, Joshua Roy and Dillon Lombardo, along with several nieces and nephews.


Honoring James's wishes no services are planned at this time. Memorials may be directed to the Republic United Methodist Church, P.O. 396, Republic, MI 49879 or the St. Jude Chilrden's Hospital at www.stjude.org