James A. Rytlewski

Jim (Jess) Rytlewski, age 77, our loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend passed away, Wednesday, July 15, 2015 at Mid-Michigan Regional Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late Aloysius and Eva (Krzyaniak) Rytlewski and was born October 5, 1937 in Williams Township where he has resided all his life. He was a member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church and was a charter member of the Knights of Columbus #3509 in Auburn. Jim worked for Wickes Lumber as a manager. He then worked at Wieland Sales where he was currently employed. On August 20, 1960 he married his loving wife, Carolyn A. Nowak at St. Anthony's Church in Fisherville. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, his daughter, Lori (Dan) Pashak, his son Robert (Julie) Rytlewski, his grandsons, Ryan (Melissa) Pashak, Bradley (Rina) Pashak, Jayson and Brandon Rytlewski. He is also survived by four brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law; Gerald Kalinowski, Norma Rytlewski, Robert (Dorine) Nowak, Daniel (Pat) Ratell and Ron Nowak, a special niece and goddaughter, Patti Shorkey. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by two brothers, Arthur Rytlewski and Erwin Rytlewski, three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Rita (Edward) Lijewski, Gertrude (Joseph) Pashak and Della Kalinowski, his father-in-law and mother-in-law; Walter and Helen Nowak. Jim was known as the "Polish Auctioneer " presiding at all the Nowak family reunions. He loved NASCAR and was a former race driver at Tri City Motor Speedway. He loved collecting antiques, going to auctions, and getting the best deal. He was a founding member of the Tri City Two Cylinder Club in Auburn and a member of the Midland Antique Engine Club. He enjoyed spending time farming with his brother Erv and nephew, Kenny on the family farm. He was a member of the Midland National Guard. Jim loved spending time with his family, was a great family storyteller and just loved life. The Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated Saturday, July 18, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Gabriel Parish-East Campus St. Joseph's 84 W. Midland Rd. Auburn, MI 48611.The celebrant will be Rev. Fr. Thomas E. Sutton followed by Military Honor's conducted by the Bay County Veterans Council. Private inurnment will take place in St. Anthony's Cemetery. The family will be present at the Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. on Friday to receive family and friends from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. The Vigil for the Deceased will take place Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home followed by the K of C #3509 Bible Presentation. Jim will be taken to the church on Saturday to lie in state from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donations to St. Gabriel Parish, Toni and Trish House or the Midland County Humane Society. www.gephartfuneralhome.com .