James Alan Wise

James Alan Wise, known affectionately as "Jim" by his friends and loved ones, passed away suddenly from natural causes on October 8, 2025, in Pennsburg, Pennsylvania, at the age of 70.
Born on September 3, 1955, in Midland, Michigan, Jim's legacy is one of intelligence, generosity, and creativity. His early life was spent in Midland, Michigan where his father had a life-long career with Dow Chemical and his mother worked as a Registered Nurse. He had many happy memories of his childhood, spending time with his four siblings and their dog, Charlie. The family briefly moved to Connecticut for his father's career, before returning to Midland, MI. The family then moved to Texas, where Jim graduated from Brazoswood High School before ultimately returning to Michigan again. A proud Wolverine, Jim followed in his father's footsteps, attending The University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He furthered his education at The Pennsylvania State University, where he pursued a Master of Engineering. After college, he relocated to Pennsylvania for work, where he established his family and spent the remainder of his life.
Predeceased by his parents, Dorothy Jean Stephens Wise and Robert Leslie Wise, as well as his stepmother, Mary Ann Smith Prentice Wise, and his brother, Jeffrey Wise, he kept their memory alive through stories and traditions. His family grew to include his former wife, Roseanne Wise, who was with him through many of life's chapters. Together, they raised two beloved daughters, Danielle Rauch and Megan Sykes. He cherished his relationships with his sons-in-law, Kevin Rauch and Vincent Sykes. His granddaughters, Lila & Sienna Rauch, and Isabella & Genevieve Sykes, were a source of immense pride and joy. "Grandpa", or "Dad", as his granddaughters called him, was often heard as they joyfully called through the house upon his arrival. He loved any opportunity to be with them, from spending a casual day together playing at home, to introducing them to family traditions. Jim's love also extended to his "grand-dogs," Remy Rauch and Hazel Sykes, who brought him immeasurable joy. Remy and Hazel will surely miss the treats that were not-so-sneakily passed under the table, and long walks while staying with Grandpa.
Jim was the cherished brother of Marilyn Charles (Gary), William Wise (Meliza), Lisa Meier, and Leslie Hopps (Jim). He was a beloved uncle to Jonathan Charles (Beth), Stephanie Charles, Caitlin Franklin (Levi), Michelle Nicholson (Daniel), Robert Wise, and great-nephews Kenneth & Sean Nicholson. His extended family spanned across West Virginia and Ohio, and through his marriage to Roseanne, he gained an additional 5 siblings-in-law, 21 nieces and nephews, as well as their children. His family will no doubt be recounting their favorite Jim/Uncle Jim stories.
Known for his intellect and curious mind, he pursued many passions through his career and his hobbies. As an Engineer, he pioneered advancements in technology that touched lives, from incubators for premature infants to the evolution of cell phones and early DVD technology. Jim's interests were as eclectic as his talents, from genealogy and sky-diving to martial arts, where he earned a black belt in Taekwondo/Hapkido. An enthusiast of air shows and anything flight-related, Jim also had a passion for gemology, the supernatural, and the great outdoors. He loved to be creative and found joy in exploring local folk art events and museums. A life-long learner and avid reader, Jim was excited to keep everyone engaged in what he was learning. His one true love was Michigan football, and Saturday games led to great conversations and bonding with his dad and brother, Bill.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jim's life on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at Aldersgate Church in Midland, Michigan. Visitation begins at 12 noon, with a 1pm service to follow. Burial will then take place at Midland Municipal Cemetery after a brief service. Jim is someone who will be remembered for his generous spirit, acts of kindness, and for always being the first person to offer his time and resources to anyone in need. We will miss Jim dearly, and plan to honor his memory by keeping his stories alive for his grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the charity of their choice.
All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored the Wise family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one.