Obituary of James Moore

James Barton Moore, age 69 of Monroe, Michigan passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2014 at the University of Michigan Hospital. Jim was born in Wadswoth, Ohio on June 11, 1944. He was the son of the late Harry C. Moore and the late Virginia (Gauthier) Moore. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by two brothers, Jack and David, and one sister Shirlee. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years Connie Moore, son James (Beth) Moore of Minnesota, daughter Amy (Brian) Luettke of Michigan, and four grandchildren: Nicholas Luettke, Sophia Luettke, Sara Moore and James Moore. Jim was a 1962 graduate of Clay City High School in Oregon, Ohio. He married his soul mate, Connie Filipski in 1965 at St. Hedwig Church in Toledo. Jim was a member of St. Ann's Parish and the Michigan Education Association. Jim retired after 27 years as a school teacher out of the Southgate School District. Jim obtained a bachelor's degree from Bowling Green University, where he was a Mid-American College (MAC) wrestling champion and went on to compete for a national title. He also earned both Masters and Specialist Degrees from Eastern Michigan University. Always the consummate athlete, Jim enjoyed all competitive activities with his family and friends here in the Monroe area and at his winter home in Leesburg, Florida where he was on both softball and volleyball teams and played tennis. He was also an avid sportsman and outdoor enthusiast, cherishing his time fishing, hunting, golfing and windsurfing. As an outstanding father and friend, Jim shared his strong work ethic, importance on education, and love for competition with his children. During his years of retirement, Jim thoroughly enjoyed his travels with his wife Connie, especially backpacking through Australia, New Zealand and Costa Rica. He also enjoyed an adventurous summer camping and working in a cannery in Alaska. Jim truly embraced the company of others which allowed him to form instant friendships with those whom he came in contact. A funeral mass will be held 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 24 at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Monroe, Michigan. Officiating will be Father John Chinnappa. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page. Memorials are suggested to the Monroe County Library System.