Michael Melvin James Sr.

Michael Melvin James, 77, passed away on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at Reading Hospital and Medical Center. He was the husband of Catherine (Verbinski) James, whom he married nearly fifty years ago on September 29, 1973. Born in Reading, he was the son of the late Melvin and Frances (Reifsnyder) James. Michael graduated from Wilson High School (Class of 1963) before studying at Thaddeus Stevens College in Lancaster. He proudly served in the US Coast Guard, traveling on an ice breaker once around the North Pole and twice around the South Pole. On his return, he embarked on a lifelong career as an auto mechanic. He worked for Central Tire for many years before his retirement in 2007. He also taught future auto mechanics at Berks Vo-Tech (now BCTC) for a number of years. Mike enjoyed road racing, hill climbing, golfing and bowling in his spare time. He and Cathy were a pinochle team that played often with friends. In addition to his wife, Cathy, Mike is survived by son, Michael James, Jr. and his wife Jennifer Stoudt-James of Fleetwood; and grandchildren: Adam Stoudt, Patrick Stoudt (wife Jenifer), Xander Stoudt, Joshua Stoudt, Alexander James, and Thomas James. A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 12:00 pm. at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc, 739 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611. Friends and relatives are invited to gather at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mike's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.act.alz.org. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.