James was born on October 14, 1948, in Owosso, the son of Carl and Elsie (Stoll) Werth. After graduating from Owosso High School in 1966, James set off and spent his younger years traveling, spending most of his time in California. Years later, he moved back to Michigan, settling up north in Leelanau County, where he built his home and started his family. From a young age James knew the value of hard work and had a love for the outdoors. His love for the outdoors was apparent to all that knew him. From logging to landscaping, he spent the last 40+ years doing what he loved, creating art in the yards he cared for and spending his time outdoors. When you thought he would be resting from a full day’s work, while everyone else was asleep, he was out delivering the Record- Eagle newspaper to Leelanau County customers. A job that brought him great joy for the past 25+ years.

1948 ~ 2025

Above all, what brought James the most joy was being a father and grandpa. His greatest happiness came from time spent with family, whom he cherished deeply.

James is survived by his daughters, Amber Rae and her mother, Billie DeLand; Markie Werth, Lainie Werth, and Kayla Cox, and their mother, Colleen DeSano; his grandchildren, Maddox, Nevaeh, Landon, Elijah, Isaiah, Raeleigh, Daxton, Lennox; and a granddaughter on the way, baby Elsie. He is also survived by his dear friends, Dale Kine and James Winoweicki. He was proceeded in death by his parents; his daughter, Tiffany Cox; and his special friends, Carol Veach, Dick Scanlon, and Kim Hillier.

A celebration of James life will be held at The Bears Den at The Sleeping Bear Resort (7640 Reynolds Rd, Lake Ann, MI, 49650) April 18th, 2026, from 1-4pm. Please share condolences and memories with the family at www.martinson.info Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.