James Jonna

James Jonna died surrounded by his loving family December 21, 2011. He was 87 years old. James was born on December 7th, 1924 in the small farming village of Telkaif, Iraq. James married his beautiful bride, Selma Esshaki, in 1949. Shortly thereafter, they emigrated to the United States to embark on an exciting new life. Jimmy, as he was known to friends and family, welcomed their five children (Christine, Gary, Debra, Diane, and Janet) over a busy five year period. After enjoying great success in the food business, Jimmy started Jonna Construction in 1965 with nothing more than a station wagon and some Craftsman tools. Jimmy's joy was working in the field, forging lasting relationships based upon honesty and integrity, and progressively building more ambitious projects. His formula was simple, "Hard work, honesty, and love are what you do." Jimmy was passionate about all his endeavors. He measured his success by the lives he touched. He also lead by example, and established the standard for others to follow. Jimmy was a pillar in the Chaldean community in metro Detroit. He helped many families realize their dream of settling in the United States, and starting a business. He generously shared his insights, wisdom, and experience with everyone he encountered, and took great pride in their accomplishments. From his humble beginnings, Jimmy displayed an incredible ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world. His life was a precious gift that we will always treasure, and reflect upon with great joy and enduring love. James was the beloved husband of Selma (nee Esshaki) for 62 years. Loving father of Christine Piligian (Chris), Gary (Doris), Debra Redden, Diane Feenstra (David), and Janet Lekas. Dear grandfather of Katrina Desmond (Kevin), Cary and Kassandra Piligian; James (Molly), Steven, and Marisa Jonna; Lauren, Rachel, and Sarah Redden; Nathan and Nicole Feenstra; Andrew and Annalise Lekas. Brother of Edward (Juliette), Rosemary Sarafa (Sameer), John (Nancy), Frank (Judy), Peter (Suzanne), and the late Manuel (Ann). Family will receive friends Thursday 2:00-8:00p.m. at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home (Vasu, Rodgers, Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward, (btwn 13-14Mile). Prayer service 5:00p.m. Funeral Mass Friday 10a.m. at St. Thomas Chaldean Catholic Church, 6900 Maple Rd, West Bloomfield. In lieu of flowers family suggests memorial tributes to the Chaldean American Ladies of Charity, benefitting the James Jonna Medical Fund for Chaldean Refugees, 32000 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 150, Farmington Hills, MI 48334.