Mary Ann James

Mary Ann James died as she had hoped, peacefully, surrounded by family, at 99 years old. May she rest in eternal peace with our Lord. Mary Ann was born February 6,1926 in Iron River, MI to John and Josie Moore, and she was a lifelong resident of the area. She married Robert "Bob" James November 15, 1947 at St. Agnes church. (A date the family never understood due to their love of camp and deer hunting.) As a lifelong parishioner, she was a member of the Rosary Sodality and Altar Society. The couple lived, worked, and raised their family in Iron River. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her husband Bob October 8, 2003, following 54 years of marriage; her eldest daughter, Nancy Russo; parents; and siblings, Joe, Stan, Lenore and Frank “Fritz”. Left to enjoy the many memories of her, are her son, Bruce (Gretchen Ratzloff); daughter, Peg (Rick) Angeli; son-in-law, Tom Russo; grandchildren, Matt and Ashley Russo, Mark and Teri Russo, Kristen and Rob James; great-grandchildren, Maisey, Nate, MacKenzie, Anthony, Carmello and Calligaro Russo and Logan James. Paul, Brianna, Gabbi and Giovanni Angeli, Erin, Gavin and Dillon Porter; friend, Earl, her favorite dance partner; nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Mary Ann enjoyed the outdoors spending much time at the family camp on Bush Creek. While there she shot archery and firearms and enjoyed picking blueberries, morel mushrooms, and arbutus flowers. Affectionately called “Mary Annie Oakley”, she refined her shooting skills throughout her lifetime. Together, she and Bob belonged to a co-ed archery team at Camp Gibbs. While at home, she tended many hours to her garden and flowers, canning, and bread making. Many will remember her for her love of music and dance. The family would like to thank Patti, Teresa, Faye, and Mary for time spent with her so that she could continue her life at home, as well as the Aspirus Hospital Health Care team, Dr. Patton and Kristen Meske. A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River. A funeral will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church with Fr. Daniel Fosu to offer the Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will be in Resthaven Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Iron River Senior Center Activities and the St. Agnes Altar Society. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mary Ann James, please visit our flower store.