James Joseph Lesch, 80, of Plymouth, passed away, at 6:25 p.m., Monday, Dec. 22, 2014, at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, in Plymouth.

Jim was born May 10, 1934, in Plymouth, to Bernard and Nellie (Richard) Lesch. On Feb. 11, 1956, he and Dorothea Muday were the first couple to marry in the newly built Saint Mary of the Lake Catholic Church in Culver. A lifetime resident of Plymouth, he attended West High School, was a basketball player, and met Dorothy, the love of his life. Jim served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1954-1956.

Jim and Dorothy moved to Chicago, for a short time, where Jim worked as a tool and die maker at Ford Motor Company. While in the service, Jim drew plans for the couple’s house and he, with the help of his brother and brothers-in-law, began building their new home in Plymouth. They moved to that home in 1958 where they remained their entire lives. On their property, Jim raised pigs for many years, and in later years operated Lesch’s Woodworking, with his brother, Al. Jim retired from Ford Motor Company after more than 40 years.

Jim is survived by his son: Scott (Tiffiny) Lesch, Spring Lake, N.C.; his daughter: Stacey Staley (companion Mark Koch), Coldwater, Mich.; five grandchildren: Riley Reinholt, Warsaw; Alison Lesch, Indianapolis; Meghan Lesch, Fort Wayne; Kyle Lesch, Auburn; Emilee Lesch, Auburn; two step-grandchildren: Ajala and Donovan Baker, Spring Lake; and two great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife; a brother: Al Lesch; and his parents.

Memorial contributions may be given to the family, to help others in need.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2, at Van Gilder Funeral Home, 300 W. Madison St., Plymouth. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, at Saint Michael Catholic Church, with Rev. John Korcsmor officiating. Burial will be held in Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth.