James Nitz's Obituary
Husband of the late Mina Mae (nee Gatlin) Nitz (deceased 2005). They were married in 1951. Father of Darlene (Joseph) Wisniewski, Sheila (fiancée Byron Cheesman) Majewski, Cynthia (Joseph) Farr and Lisa (Michael) Cox. Grandfather of 14, Great-Grandfather of 6. Many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Nitz was a resident of Hazel Park for 80 years. He made a living as a truck driver for over 50 years, the last 37 driving a double bottom gas tanker. Baseball was his second love. If he was not playing in the seniors league, he was watching on TV, or listening on the radio. As a young man in 1943 he was invited to the Detroit Tigers farm system as his shot to the big leagues, but passed up the invitation to join the marines and defend his country. He was assigned to the 2nd Marine Division, serving in the Pacific theater fighting on Saipan, Tarowa, Tinian, and Okinowa and receiving the purple heart as well as several other medals. He was a hero to his family and country, and was liked by all and will be missed.
Visitation Saturday (1/12/2008) from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm and Sunday (1/13/2008) from 1:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Funeral Services Monday (1/14/2008) 11:00 am at Hopcroft Funeral Home, 31145 John R. Road, Madison Heights. Burial White Chapel Cemetery, Troy.
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