James Mangiapane

James Mangiapane Sr.

June 5, 1943 – March 3, 2025

James Mangiapane Sr., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, at the age of 81. He was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and was the son of the late James and Florence Mangiapane. He was the third of five siblings.

James was a real estate investor and worked for General Motors in their Argonaut Real Estate Division. He also served as the Superintendent of the Sunday School at Redemption Lutheran Church and led a singles group and Bible study at Countryside Free Methodist Church, where he made a lasting impact. James was deeply involved with the pro-life movement through Right to Life. His love for gardening, bread baking, metal detecting, birdwatching, coin collecting, and reading the Bible were among his many hobbies. He greatly valued his Italian heritage and enjoyed sharing it with his family and friends.

He is survived by his children Jill Boyer (Glenn), Jena Shea (Kevin), James Mangiapane Jr., Jesi Smith (Brad) and their mother Lana; Ashley Robinson (Nehemiah), and Sarah Mangiapane (Greg Otto) and their mother Colleen. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Jade, James, Jala, Jack, John, Jordan (spouse Karson), Michael, Grace (spouse Evan), Elijah, Gideon, Hope, Faith, Arayah, Kamren, and Olivia. James was also the great-grandfather of Henry Kreft and Wilder Fisher.

James is also survived by his siblings: Russel (Gayle), Thomas (Pat), and Michele (Pat), and was predeceased by his brother, Anthony (Marsha). He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins who will carry his memory forward.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Knox Presbyterian Church, 25700 Crocker Boulevard, Harrison Township, MI 48045. Family and friends are invited to attend and share memories of a man who will be deeply missed.