James Thayer

James Edward "Jim" Thayer, age 79, of Breckenridge, MI, passed away Friday, May 14, 2021, at his home with his partner Jeanette Wolgast by his side.

Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, MI, on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Jut Daron officiating. Burial will take place at a later date at Ridgelawn Cemetery, Breckenridge, MI. Visitation will be held beginning at 11:00 A.M. prior to the service at the funeral home.

James was born in West Branch, MI, on January 12, 1942, the son of Raymond L. and Zana M. (Hendrie) Thayer. He graduated from St. Louis High School with the class of 1960. James resided most of his life in the St. Louis area. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. He worked for Dow Corning for 30 years until his retirement in 1997.

During the last 40 years, James' partner in life has been Jeanette Wolgast. He enjoyed fishing and spent many years hunting with his family. He liked collecting antiques. He was very proud of his flower garden and lawn. James loved dining out and good food. He enjoyed time with his family riding snowmobiles, camping, and just being together.

James is survived by his life partner Jeanette Wolgast, son Darren (Alesha) Thayer of St. Louis, MI; daughter Kimberly Sandel of Alma, MI; 8 grandchildren: Teagan (Casey) Bollig, Keeley (Alex) DeBack, Kennedy Thayer, Cologio Alighire, Lillie Thayer, Lexie Thayer, Linzy (Augustine) Garcia, Clayton Clark, and Duncan Clark; 7 great granchildren: Evelyn Bollig, Xzavior Garcia, Ella Garcia, Marcello Garcia, Romero Garcia, Amara Garcia and Carter Humphrey. He is also survived by 3 brothers: Donald (Betty) Thayer, Dennis (Carol) Thayer, and Bill (Ann) Thayer; and many nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by his parents.

Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, MI.