James Russel Roth

1938 - 2023

James "Jess" Russel Roth
October 18, 1938 - February 3, 2023
James "Jess" Russel Roth, age 84, passed away Friday, February 3, 2023 at his daughter's home after a brief illness. He was born in Tomah, Wisconsin, the son of George and Malinda (Smith) Roth. Jess was a member of the Iroquois Confederacy, Oneida Nation, Turtle Clan with a tribal name of "Grey Hawk".
Dianne Carol (Barnett) Roth, age 78, passed away Sunday, October 24, 2021 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. She was born in Dearborn, Michigan on October 11, 1943, the daughter of Raymond and Helen (Koski) Barnett. Dianne was a 1962 graduate from L'Anse High School. She then furthered her education receiving her cosmetology license.
Jess and Dianne were both baptized in the Zion Lutheran Church in Skanee, MI where they eventually were married on March 6, 1965. Dianne was Jess' love of his life and he affectionately called her Maggie. They both had many talents and skills. Jess was a heavy equipment operator for many years before Dianne encouraged him to own and operate a 200-acre dairy farm so he could spend more time with his family. He was a member of the Michigan Milk Producers Association and Evart Wood Carvers Roundup. Jess taught wood carving lessons for many years teaching school aged kids how to make wooden knives. Dianne was a talented seamstress and created beautiful work. She was employed by Fabricana for several years working with her dear friend Ann Yost. Dianne also owned and operated DiAnn's Bridal Shop and JR Western Store. The heavy work eventually took a toll on Jess' back and he had to retire early. He and Dianne sought out a warmer climate and moved to Rock Island, TN. Together they celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary in 2021. Following Dianne's death, Jess decided he wanted to spend his remaining years with his eldest daughter Julie in Stanwood, MI. He enjoyed cutting and clearing brush, tending to his chickens, as well as, watching wildlife that came to his feeders and pond.
Jess and Dianne were very influential in many lives in their community but especially their children and grandchildren. Jess was a father figure to his grandchildren and was known by "Grandpa" to all. One of his greatest life memories for his 84th birthday, Jess rode in an open cockpit jet fighter from World War II.
Together, Jess and Dianne are survived by their children, Julie Ann (Dan) Jankowski Ellison of Stanwood and Jean Marie Maki of Belvidere, TN; six grandchildren, Jessica Marie (Shawn) Maki Martin, Jacob Thomas Jankowski, Rebekah Ann (Ryan) Jankowski Preston, Cody (Heather) Ellison, Kailey (Quintan) Ellison Hoolihan, and Elizabeth (David) Ellison Scarbough; nine great-grandchildren and one on the way; son-in-law, Theodore Jankowski of Stanwood; lifelong friend, Joe Weirauch; Jess' siblings, Walter (Carol) Roth of L'Anse, and Gladys (Jon) Telschow of Ukiah, CA; Dianne's sister, Jill Botsford of Rhinelander, WI; brother-in-law, Joseph Majeski of Skanee; aunt, Eila Koski of Aura; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
They were preceded in death by their parents; Jess' siblings George, Jr. "June" (Irma) Roth, Jackie (Raylene) Roth, Eugene "Pat" Roth, Ida Mae Charles, Dorothy Pike, and baby sister Mary Roth; Dianne's step-father Homer Collins and sister Marilyn Majeski.
Cremation has taken place and a Brush Pile Party and outdoor potluck picnic will be held 12:00 p.m. (Noon) May 21, 2023 at the Ellison's residence, 8660 170th Avenue, Stanwood, MI 49346. A Graveside Service for Jess will take place 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 1, 2023 at Skanee Township Cemetery with a Celebration of Jess and Dianne's Life to follow at 1:00 p.m. on July 1, 2023 at Aura Community Hall, 13759 Townline Road, L'Anse, MI 49946.
Memorial contributions may be made in their name to Rodeo on the Pond, which is held in Morley, the third weekend in August. Envelopes may be picked up at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids.
Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com