James D. Donati

James “Jimmer” D. Donati, age 63, of Iron River, MI, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 9, 2023. He was born on April 1, 1960, in Stambaugh, MI, the son of Irene (Gagnea) Donati and the late Daniel Donati. He attended the local schools, graduating from West Iron County High School with the class of 1978. Jimmer married Susan Sapletal on August 28, 1982, at St. Agnes Catholic Church. The couple made their home in Iron River. They celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary in 2004. Sue preceded him in death on January 14, 2005. He and Sue owned Miners' Harvest Jewelers in 1991. Jimmer was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church. He enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors, gardening, attending local sporting events, and spending time with his family and friends. Jimmer is survived by his daughter, Samantha (Seth) Pittsley of Iron River, MI; mother, Irene Donati of Iron River; fiancée, Laura Reid of Crystal Falls, MI; daughter-in-law, Meghan Donati of Traverse City, MI; future stepson, Bob (Korie) Reid of Crystal Falls, MI; grandchildren, Nathan, Natalie, and Nolan Donati, Maddox and Vander Pittsley, and Zoey and Aubree Reid; brothers, Gregory (Virginia) Donati, David (Stacy) Donati, Mark (Shari) Donati, John (Dana Wester) Donati, all of Iron River, MI and Paul (Cheryl) Donati, Gaastra, MI; sisters, Kathy (Rich) Robokoff of Green Bay, WI and Julie Sauvola of Baraga, MI; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was also preceded in death by his son, Joseph Donati. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River. Funeral services will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church with Rev. Daniel Fosu to offer the Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will be in Resthaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Northwoods Animal Shelter. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James D. Donati, please visit our flower store.