Jami Griffee

Jami Jo Griffee, 82, of Niles, died peacefully November 1, 2025, in the comfort of his family's presence.

His life began August 15, 1943, in Niles, Michigan the youngest of four children born to Jay and Mildred Griffee. He married the love of his life, Leslie Putz in St. Mary Catholic Church April 20, 1968, she later died in 2009.

Joe graduated from Niles High School, excelling in sports like football, basketball, wrestling, and track. His accomplishments were seen and mentioned in the local newspaper many times for his skill and talent. Joe served proudly in the Navy on the USS Von Steuben, as a frogman; a pre-SEAL underwater demolition team, and "plank owner"; a member of a ship's original commissioning crew. Joe was interested in skydiving after being introduced by a friend and was a member of the Lawton Sharpshooter's Skydiving Club. A Daily Star article quoted Joe, "Skydiving is similar to a football player's nervous "butterflies" before a game. It's only about 10 times worse, but that's the enjoyment of it." He was part owner of his father's tavern, Jay's Lounge, opened in the early 1960's. Joe was a successful businessman, selling X-Ray equipment to hospitals in the region. His hobbies included; spending time with his friends and family, golfing, and of course Notre Dame football. He was a member of the American Legion in Buchanan. You could always find Joe at one of his favorite spots; drinking a beer and laughing with friends. He always had a story to tell.

Joe will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by one son, Todd (Bonnie Jo) Griffee of Highland, Indiana; one daughter, Heather (Tony) Moffitt of Niles; six grandchildren Megan (J.C.) Bernarte of Misawa Japan, Ashley (Brandon) of Lakeview Indiana, Joe (Breanne) Griffee of Foley, Alabama, Brooke Anderson of Indianapolis, Tisha Moffitt of Niles, Antonio Moffitt of Niles; two step grandchildren, Mackenzie Walling, Brock Walling of southern Indiana; twenty great grandchildren, Olson, Blair, Ellis, Lucas, Gabriel, Bailey, baby Michelle, Savannah, Brandon Jr., Joshua Jr., Naomi, Aryus, Skylir, Ivy, Lennox, Nasami, Makai, Kaisley, Eulaila, Eliel; one sister, Julane Griffee; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved wife.

Family and friends will gather Wednesday, November 5, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services, 615 East Main Street, Niles. A service will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in Trinity Episcopal Church, 9 South 4th Street, Niles, Michigan, where Mr. Griffee will be accorded full Military Honors. Joe will be laid to rest in Mission Hill Memorial Gardens.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Joe to be made to Alzheimer's Association, Greater Michigan Chapter, 2944 Fuller Avenue Northeast, #101, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505 or to www.alz.org/gmc.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services, Niles. Please share a memory or a message online: halbritterwickens.com.