Obituary of James McKee

James Edgar McKee was born in Detroit, Michigan on November 3, 1937. He was one of two children, the son of the late Warren and Laurette (Stearns) McKee. James attended school in Detroit. He served his country honorably in the United States Navy, earning a Good Conduct Medal. James married the love of his life, the former Mary Cancilla, in Pontiac on December 28, 1978. James supported his family as a Millwright in the Steel Manufacturing business. He was employed with North Star Steel, retiring in 2002. James had many pastimes. He enjoyed the outdoors, watching John Wayne movies and playing guitar. His love of music varied from Willie Nelson to Kid Rock to Rod Stewart. James had a passion for riding and fixing motorcycles. He loved to tinker and could fix anything, as he was mechanically inclined. James was also a fine leather craftsman and made several saddle bags and belts. James was usually quiet when meeting someone for the first time but once he got to know you, he loved to talk. His large family was the center of his life. His son said that James was the hardest working and strongest man he ever met. He loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren. James Edgar McKee Sr, age 75 of Erie, passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2013 at 6:45am at Magnumcare of Monroe. He was preceded in death by his parents. To cherish his memory, James leaves his beloved wife of thrity-four years: Mary McKee; six children: James Jr. (Christina), Timothy (Steve Zazo), of Ferndale, Brian (Joyce) of Springhill Florida, Cheryl (Paul) Benore of Monroe, Patricia McKee of Taylor, and Susan (Keith)Lobo of Erie, a sister: Marilyn (James) Trenkle of Novi; a half-sister: Joanne Nemode of Seattle Washington; twelve grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. Friends and family may gather from 2:00-7:00pm, Monday, November 4, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life follows at 7:00 p.m. Reverend Kenny Spain will officiate and members of Erie VFW Post 3925 will present military honors. Burial will take place at Great Lakes Cemetery in Holly, Michigan on Tuesday, November 5 at 12:30pm. Donations for those who desire are suggested to the family to assist with funeral expenses. Online guests may leave word of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.