James G. Papajesk, Sr.

Mr. James G. Papajesk, Sr., of Bay City, passed away at his residence surrounded by his family on Monday, September 5, 2016, age 73. The son of the late George and Ruth (Granger) Papajesk, he was born on January 5, 1943 in Bay City. Jim was a graduate of Visitation High School and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He then worked for Michigan Bell and retired from AT&T in 1994. Jim was a member of Our Lady of Peace Parish. He enjoyed camping, golfing, hunting, fishing and bowling and was a member of the U.S.B.C. of Michigan. Jim was an avid photographer for many years and has been the photographer for John Glenn Bowling and Thunder Hockey. He had an excellent touch grilling and helped grill for several events at SVSU including the Detroit Lions camps. Jim was a true family man and was very involved with his grandchildren's activities.
On December 17, 1966 Jim married the former Elizabeth M. Douponce and she survives his passing along with their two sons, James (Veronica) Papajesk, Jr. and Scott Papajesk both of Bay City; his four beloved grandsons', Quentin, Vincent, Ashton and Everett; his sister, Jeanne Sheehan of Dallas, TX; his brother and sisters-in-law, Lois (Paul) Dowty, Joan (Dale) Betcher and Paul (Bernadette) Douponce; and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Jim was also preceded in death by his brother, Michael Papajesk.
A Memorial Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 9, 2016 at Our Lady of Peace Parish - St. Mary's Church. The Celebrant will be Rev. Fr. Patrick M. Jankowiak followed by Military Honors conducted by the U.S. Army and the Bay County Veterans Council. Friends may call at the Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. on Thursday from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. and at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. The Parish Vigil Service will take place Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to McLaren Hospice. www.gephartfuneralhome.com