Ishpeming Twp,- James W. "Jim" Rajala, age 82 lifelong Ishpeming resident passed away Sunday, December 31, 2017 at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility in Ishpeming while in the loving care of his family, staff at MCMCF and UP Home Health and Hospice.

James was born October 3, 1935 in Ishpeming to the late John and Marie (Lummukka) Rajala. Jim graduated from Ishpeming High School, and served his country in the U.S. Navy. Jim worked as a plant repairman for Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company at the Pioneer Pellet Plant and retired from the Tilden Mine.

Jim was a member of the Negaunee Rod and Gun Club and the Riverside Club where he enjoyed playing "Santa Claus" for the kids. Jim also enjoyed hunting, woodworking and in his younger years playing softball, bowling and throwing horseshoes.

Jim is survived by 3 daughters Sandra (Pete) Cittadino of Michigamme, Sharon (Kevin) Hoffman of Cornell and Kristine (Daniel) Ball of Negaunee, a sister Janet (James) Poirier of Clawson, MI, 13 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, along with nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Faith (Peterson) Rajala and a brother Ernest Rajala.

Jim's family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00-11:00 am on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at the Bethel Lutheran Church where a memorial service will be held at 11:00 am with Rev. Lauri O. Maki officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

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

Memorials may be directed to UPAWS at UPAWS.org or 84 Snowfield Rd, Negaunee, MI 49866 in memory of Jim Rajala.

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