James W. “Specs” Mineau, age 75, of 805 Superior Avenue; Gladstone, passed away on Wednesday, March 11th, 2009 at the Oscar G. Johnson Veterans Center in Iron Mountain.

Jim was born February 25th, 1934 in Gladstone, the son of Wilfred and Adelaide (McIntyre) Mineau, was raised in Gladstone and graduated from the Gladstone School System. Jim was married to the former Mary Lou Waeghe for over 51 years and together raised seven children.

In 1951, he enlisted in U.S. Air Force serving until 1953 and subsequently moved to Kenosha, Wisconsin where he was employed by American Motors. He later returned to Gladstone and worked for Marble Arms Corporation in Gladstone for a period of time.

Later on, Jim became an employee of Harnischfeger in Escanaba until its closure. For nearly the last ten years of his working life, Jim was employed for the City of Gladstone.

Jim was a member of All Saints Church, the Gladstone American Legion August Mattson Post #71, All Saints Smear League, and was a former Cub Scout Master. Hunting, fishing, spending time at camp were some of his favorite past-times. In addition, he was in avid Green Bay Packer fan, but most of all, Jim enjoyed his family. He and Mary Lou particularly enjoyed traveling to various locations in the country to visit their children.

James “Specs” Mineau survivors include:

his wife, Mary Lou, whom he married August 31st, 1957 in Gladstone.

5 Sons- Peter Mineau of Gladstone; Brian (Jackie) Mineau of Lancaster, CA; Keith Mineau of Simi Valley, CA; Mark Mineau of Gladstone; Kelly Mineau of Gladstone

2 Daughters- Christine Rushlo of Gladstone; Roseann (Scott) Spencer of Whispering Pines, NC

5 Grandchildren- Erin Mineau, Candina Mineau, Matthew Mineau,January Spencer, and Mason Spencer.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a brother, Carlton “Carlie” Mineau.
The family of Jim Mineau will receive friends on Monday at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone from 3:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. with Military Rites being conducted at 5:45 p.m. by the American Legion. Services celebrating Jim’s life will follow on Monday at 6:00 p.m. at the Skradski Funeral Home with Rev. Fr. Arnold Grambow officiating. Luncheon will follow services in the All Saints Parish Hall. Burial will be in the Fernwood Cemetery.