Rev. Msgr. M. James Lutz

Rev. Msgr. M. James Lutz, age 93, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Masonic Care Community.
Father Jim was born in Utica on November 17, 1931, to Martin and Mary Agnes (Crave) Lutz.
He attended John T. Hughes Elementary School and graduated from Utica Free Academy. Father continued his education at St. Bonaventure University, St. Lawrence University, and St. Bernard's Seminary, Rochester, on his journey to the priesthood.
Ordained on February 3, 1958, Father Jim served many area parishes, including St. Anthony's, Chadwicks, St. Paul's, Whitesboro, St. Francis Xavier, Marcellus, The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Syracuse, and St. Ann's, Manlius. His special assignments included Lucian Guild, Syracuse Power Squadron, Alhambra, CCD Executive Committee and as Director of Propagation of the Faith for the Syracuse Diocese for 16 years.
Among the many highlights of his priesthood, Father Jim especially treasured being named a Monsignor and the unforgettable experience of meeting Pope John Paul II.
He had a deep love for the 1000 Islands, where he spent countless happy days camping with his parents and later at his own camp on the St. Lawrence River in Clayton. An avid boater and fisherman, he enjoyed serving with the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Some of his happiest times were the family gatherings held at his beloved camp.
Father Jim was always a planner and a doer. Known for his exceptional culinary skills, he relished the family dinners at his home throughout the years. Somewhat of a history buff, he traced his family's lineage back to the 1700s. His love of photography was on full display as he was always taking pictures at family gatherings. We have him to thank for the fond memories captured in the trove of photos taken over the years.
Father Jim is survived by many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.
He met and made many acquaintances over the years, and two of these long-lasting and cherished relationships were with Father Jim Culver and Father Dan Heintz.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Margaret Ann (Arthur) Fantaci; brothers, Peter, Robert (Donna), and Michael Lutz.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 21st at 10:30 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Our Lady of Lourdes. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Whitesboro.
Father's family extends a special thank you to the wonderful staff of the Masonic Care Community for the care they gave Jim over the past several years.
Arrangements are under the direction of McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd., Utica.
Messages of sympathy at www.mmknfd.com