James Leo Niedzwiecki

Ned passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Friday, November 7, 2025 at the age of 86. He was born on February 24, 1939 to the late Zygmund and Martha (Yarch) Niedzwiecki in Alpena, Michigan. He was the owner of Sir Ned’s Hair Styling Salon for 63 years and always had a shop dog, that he loved with all his heart. He was a proud Veteran and served in the United States Army for 2 years. He was a Corvette enthusiast, loved cooking, baking, grilling and hosting his Annual 4th of July party. In his youth, Ned was a member of the Jaycee’s and was currently a supporter of Crime Stoppers. Most importantly, he loved helping kids, his community and anyone in need. He was a proud annual supporter of the Covenant Kids Fundraiser and the Maier & Associates, Just For Kids Event.

Ned is survived by his wife of 13 years, Connie Gauthier; daughter, Pam (Terry) VanDenBoom; step son, Kurtis Pake; step daughter, Kimberly (Bryan) Valencia; grandchildren, Zachary (Holly) VanDenBoom, Blake Valencia, Brett Valencia and Jordan Baumer; and great granddaughter, Elise Baumer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his late wife, Pat Niedzwiecki; daughter, Julie Baumer; grandsons, Dr. Adam VanDenBoom and Parker Valencia; and granddaughter, Paige Baumer.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff with MyMichigan Hospice, especially nurse Katie who took very good care of Ned. The family would also like to say thank you to his step daughter, Kimberly, for never leaving his side since the day he came home from the Hospital. She was there for him for whatever he needed, right until the very end.

Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Peace Parish with a private interment taking place at St. Patrick Cemetery. Officiating will be Fr. Pat O’Connor. Immediately following mass, Military Honors will be performed by the Bay County Veterans Council and the United States Army. The family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at Gephart Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a Vigil Service taking place at 7:00 p.m. The family will also be present to receive visitors on Friday at the Church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Memorial contributions may be made in Ned’s name to the Our Lady of Peace Food Pantry.