James Edward Okonoski

James Edward Okonoski, a loving and faith-filled man, entered into eternal life on June 9, 2021.

Jim was born in Detroit on July 7, 1944 to the late Clement A. and Theresa A. (Ryntz) Okonoski. Raised in East Detroit, he was baptized and confirmed at St. Veronica. Faith was the foundation of Jim's life from an early age and he graduated from St. Veronica's grade school and Notre Dame High School. He went on to earn his Bachelor's in Education from Wayne State University and Master's from the University of Michigan.

On August 14, 1971, Jim married the love of his life, Merry L. Bowles. Together they loved to go on walks, bike rides and drives. In their free time Jim enjoyed cooking, and prepared abundant and generous meals for friends and family. For many years Jim hosted a regular Tuesday night dinner where all were welcome. He will be fondly remembered for his many meals - especially his meat loaf! Jim loved hosting gatherings, and visiting with friends and family.

Jim taught auto shop at East Detroit High School for over 30 years–teaching was truly Jim's calling in life. He also found great joy in being one of Santa's Helpers at the Grand Traverse Mall. He adored listening to children and adults alike and spreading Christmas cheer. Jim had a heart of gold and gave generously of his time volunteering for many organizations. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and helped cook meals for those in need. He was a voracious reader of spiritual books and could often be found contemplating, thinking and praying for others.

Jim and Merry have been parishioners over the years at St. Lucy's, Christ the King, and Immaculate Conception. He was a dedicated and talented lector, and always an enthusiastic usher! Jim attended 47 annual retreats at the St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat Center, and it was here that he fostered friendships and strengthened his relationship with our Lord and Savior.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his mother-in-law, Betty, and her sister, Bea, who were very special and important to Jim; his siblings Michael Okonoski and Christine Doyle, and one of his dear aunts, Sister Joseph-Anne Ryntz.

Jim is survived by his wife of nearly fifty years, Merry; son Glen (Holly) of Rockford; son David (Melissa) of Grosse Pointe Farms; daughter Leanne of Grosse Pointe Park; grandchildren Alayna, Colin, Logan, Evy and Lillian.

Jim believes in the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Death no longer has power over him. Death has died. Jim lives on.


Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, June 14, 2021 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. The Knights of Columbus will lead the rosary at 7:30 pm.

The mass of Christian burial will be held on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at 11:00 am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Visitation will be held at the church beginning at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Kewadin.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat Center, 23333 Schoolcraft, Detroit, MI 48223 (St. Paul of the Cross | Passionist Retreat & Conference Center (stpaulretreat.org), or to Hospice of Michigan, where Jim was a dedicated volunteer.

Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories and condolences with the family.