A Dear Friend Has Passed Away

[Bob "Kaz" Kaczkowski]

A long time friend, not only to me but to hundreds of anglers has passed away. Mike James, Ranger Boats representative, died suddenly of a heart attack on Dec. 28th while helping a friend. Mike was only 46 years old.

Mike is survived by his wife Lorri, three sons, Ryan, Conner and Cameron and Mike's mom, Sylvia. Visitation will be Jan. 1st from 5:00 p.m. at Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Ave., Mattoon, IL 61938, tel. 217-234-8828. Services will be Jan. 2nd at 3:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 1804 S. 9th in Mattoon, tel.217-234-7740.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made to the Mike D. James Memorial Scholarship Fund which will provide schlorships for Mattoon High School football players who wish to attend college. Contributions can be made to the funeral home.

God bless Mike and his family who need our prayers and support.

Bob "Kaz" Kaczkowski

[Nofish]

Kaz,

Thanks for the info about the scholarship fund. Okay guys and gals, the ball is in our court.

Can we do as Walleye Central always does? I challenge everyone to send 5 bucks. That's it, at least five bucks to the fund in Mikes name.

I figure that, if just his friends sent that amount we can put 3 kids through school!!!

Now that the initial shock is fading, I'd like to think Mike would want us to remember the smile and twinkle that was almost always in his eye. And to thankfully remember the mentor that took many under his wing, and made all feel welcome, even if they did run the wrong boat. ;-)

Mike, as was his dad Bob James, was a class act and I will remember him fondly. As we gather tonight, raise a glass and tip one to Mike.

Have a Happy New Year, and say an extra prayer or two for Lorri Sylvia and the boys...........R

[Skeeter]

Count me in. Can we send it to Walleye Central Scott? Nels

[Nofish]

Hey Nels,

I will find out where to send the donation in Mikes name. I will post the info here.

Thanks......R

[Here is where you send it]

Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Ave., Mattoon, IL 61938, tel. 217-234-8828.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made to the Mike D. James Memorial Scholarship Fund which will provide schlorships for Mattoon High School football players who wish to attend college. Contributions can be made to the funeral home.