James Donato

James was born June 2nd, 1944 in Ishpeming to the late Nicholas & Evelyn (Matheson) Donato. He was a self-employed, “Jack of All Trades”, working mostly as a carpenter. He was an army veteran, and he served during Vietnam war. James and Barbara were married on September 7, 1996 and enjoyed 28 years of marriage together, though they shared many years of being friends and lovers prior to their marriage. James worked at Robbins Flooring Mill for several years. He enjoyed skiing, going for rides to the casino to play blackjack, riding horses and camping with Barbara. Jim loved playing croquet where he enjoyed using his lefthand advantage against everyone.

James is survived by his wife, Barbara Donato, two children, son- James (Cheri) Donato of Kimball, MI, and daughter- Gina (Brian) Donato Perry of Ishpeming; three step-children- Tracy (Gary) Bischof, John (Valerie Jordan) Gregorich, and Shawn (Becky Vanni) Gregorich, three grandchildren- Melissa, Jessica, and Kaitlyn, one great grandson- Liam, four step-grandchildren- Evelyn and Landon Cook, McKenna McPearson, and Brody Vickstrom, siblings- Rocco (Janet) Donato of Corona California, Rosemarie (Dione “Chic”) Cecchini of Ishpeming, Ralph (Helen) Donato of Neenah, WI, along with several nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents Evelyn (Mathieson) and Nick Donato, siblings Victor Donato, Danny Donato, Stella (Bob) Ball of California, Mary Lou (Joe) Suardini of Ishpeming, Irene (Gert) Cevigney of Ishpeming, Tony (Dee) Donato of Ishpeming, Nick Donato Jr. of Ishpeming, and David Donato of Ishpeming.

James’ family will have a celebration of his life from 1:00pm until 4:00pm at the River Rock Lanes and Banquet Center in Ishpeming on Saturday April 5, 2025. A memorial prayer will be held at 3:30pm by Susan Gagnon followed by Military Honors.

James’ obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.