James "Jim" Francis Eigner

James Francis Eigner, age 86, of Essexville, Michigan passed away at his home on February 2, 2026. James was born October 15, 1939 to the late Joseph and Silvia (Corrion) Eigner in Munger, Michigan. James grew up with a deep appreciation for family and hard work. He retired from General Motors as a machine repair journeyman and was a lifelong member of St. John the Evangelist Church (St. Jude Thaddeus Parish of Essexville) where he ushered for many years. He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council 2740 and a member of the Bay City Muskrat Club. He was well known for canning the best darn pickles in Michigan. He took great pride in keeping his lawn in tip-top shape and made sure everyone knew it.

James embraced life with love for his children and grandchildren and friends. He loved fishing, hunting and spending time at the hunting cabin in Atlanta, Michigan. He relished his trips to California, Hawaii and Alaska and proudly served in the National Guard.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Kristie (Bill) Drake, Jeff (Colette) Eigner; grandchildren, Nicole (Corey) Eigner, Mitchell (Melissa) Eigner; very special lady, Mary Napieralski; sister, Pauline Plumlee; sisters-in-law, Bridgette Eigner and Kay Eigner and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his brothers, Lawrence, Eugene, Louis and Leonard Eigner; sister, Lillian Sakon; brothers-in-law, John Sakon, Arnold Plumlee and nephews, Martin Plumlee, Terry Eigner, Joe Eigner, John Sakon Jr. and Ricky Sakon.

A memorial liturgy will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026 at St. Jude Thaddeus Parish, 614 Pine Street, Essexville, Michigan 48732. Celebrant will be Rev. Fr. Dale Orlik with military honors to follow. Friends may visit with the family at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Thaddeus Parish.