James 'Jim' Edward Mott

IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. - James "Jim" Edward Mott, 85, of Ewen passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2019, at the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain, after an extended illness.

He was born in Ontonagon County on Sept. 21, 1933, to Charles Mott Sr. and Lillian VanBlarcom. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952 as an ammunition specialist where he attained the rank of airman first class. He was stationed at Royal Air Force Base Wing in England where he met and married Ann Cawood, his wife of 52 years.

Throughout his life he had many jobs - including car salesman, TV repairman and school bus driver. He was an associate professor at Northern Michigan University, teaching industrial manufacturing engineering. In 1990, he ran for the Michigan Senate. He enjoyed playing guitar, working on old cars and going to the casino. He traveled throughout the United States with his wife Mittie, who was by his side until his death.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ann; a son, Steven; sisters, Betty Lorendo and Caroline Karhu; and a brother, Charles "Chuck" Jr.

He is survived by his second wife of 10 years, Mittie Smith; his sons, Timothy (Eileen), Brian (Kay) and Raymond (Debbie); and daughter, Dianne Mott Roonie. He was also survived by his stepsons, Granville and Jesse Smith; and stepdaughters, Claudine, Jeannie and Chris. He also had numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Cane Funeral Home, Bruce Crossing Chapel. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. with a service to follow. Interment will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in memory of James E. Mott to the Ontonagon County Cancer Association.