James Thomas

Jim was born March 23, 1942 in Ishpeming to Clarence “Coke” and Janetta (Medlyn) Thomas. He graduated from Negaunee High School in 1961 and was a lifelong area resident. After high school, Jim continued his education at Northern Michigan University where he earned both BS and MA degrees in Secondary Education, and an Education Specialist Degree.

Jim was a lifelong educator. He began his teaching career in the mathematics department at Ishpeming High School. After 15 years in the classroom, Jim moved into administration and became the principal of Phelps Middle School. Later, Jim returned to Ishpeming High School where he spent the remainder of his career as Principal and Athletic Director. He retired in 2002 after 37 years with the District.

Throughout his life, Jim was an active and visionary community member and served on several organizations including Negaunee Elks Lodge, Negaunee Lions Club, Negaunee Historical Society, Negaunee Rod and Gun Club, Negaunee Iron Town, Marquette County Habitat for Humanity, Negaunee City Council, and Negaunee City Board of Review.

Jim was a true advocate for progress, and upon retirement, he devoted himself to a passion that would transform the community; the creation of a comprehensive 47-mile year-round multiuse trail system that would provide a beautiful outdoor recreation experience for the people and visitors of Marquette County. For the next several years, Jim worked tirelessly to help make this dream a reality. He partnered with government agencies to acquire funding, researched and designed his own maps of the area, raised environmental awareness, and educated others of the rich local history and natural landscapes. He dedicated countless hours to clearing and maintaining the trail, and was a founding member and the first Chair of the Iron Ore Heritage Trail Authority (IOHT). In 2021, the Jackson Mine City Pavilion near the IOHT trailhead in Negaunee was dedicated in his honor.

Jim’s other notable accolades include the 1998 Marquette and Alger Counties Kellogg Educator Incentive Award for Excellence in Administration, the 1993 – 1994 Ishpeming Public School District’s “Drug-Free School Award for Excellence,” and was the recipient of the 1993 Youth for Understanding International Student Exchange’s “International Education Award of Excellence.”

He received numerous awards for his work on the IOHT including: the 2008 Citizen of the Year Award (Marquette County Ambassadors), the 2008-2009 Citizen of the Year Award from the Negaunee Elks Lodge, the 2009 Distinguished Individual Award Presented by the Lake Superior Community Partnership, and the 2010 Hometown Health Hero Award by the Michigan Department of Community Health.

In his spare time, Jim enjoyed working in his woodshop, spending time outdoors, and cheering on his grandchildren in their various sports and activities. He was a wonderful role model and mentor to his children and grandchildren and will always be remembered for his kindness and strength.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 57 years, Marilyn (Nevala) Thomas; his two loving daughters: Rebecca (Kurt) Johnson of Barrington, IL, and Jamie (Jeff) Marker of Negaunee; three adored grandchildren, Ian Johnson, and Emily and Megan Marker; two brothers, Robert (Nita) and Richard (Barbie)Thomas; two sisters, Jane Nordeen and Sally (Archie) Mitchell; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, John ‘Jack’ Thomas.

Jim’s legacy lives on through his family and the community connections he forged through his career and stewardship. Honoring his wishes, a celebration of his life will be held next summer. If you are interested in keeping with his dedicated and caring spirit, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to: Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Authority, PO Box 326, Negaunee, MI, 49866, or https://ironoreheritage.com.

Jim’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.