Jim was born to Ewald and Louise Wehling and grew up in Wyandotte, MI along with his sister, Louise. He went to work for Ford Motor Company at the age of 18. His work there was interrupted when he was drafted by the US Army for two years and served in Vietnam. Upon returning to his job at Ford Motor Company, he met his future wife, Jean and was married in 1965. They made a home in Garden City and had three children: Tracy, Lisa and Jim. They celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary last August. While working and raising a family, he obtained a Bachelors degree from the University of Michigan.

Jim spent time playing softball, bowling and his favorite pastime, golf.  Jim was a great golfer. He had 3 hole in one's. His goal was to golf in all 50 states. He missed the goal by only New Mexico. Jim was a history buff and an avid reader. He enjoyed classical music and was a master at crossword puzzles. He enjoyed movies and amassed quite the collection. He and son, Jim toured all the US baseball stadiums together.

He retired at the age of 55 just in time to spend winters in Florida and also take on the new role of proud Papa to his 2 granddaughters, Natalie and Caroline. He spent lots of time with them swimming, playing miniature golf, watching movies, at the beach and being their biggest fan at sporting events, concerts, dance recitals and school events.

He was a funny, generous and smart man. He was a loving husband, father, papa and uncle who touched many lives. He will be missed by those who knew him.

Visitation Wednesday 2-8pm at the John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, 1139 Inkster Road, Garden City (Between Ford Road and Cherry Hill).  In State Thursday 9:30am until the 10am Funeral Service at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 31530 Beechwood (at Merriman Road, 2 blocks north of Ford Rd.).

Memorials suggested to the Garden City Library.