James Saule

SAULE, James Roy - Age 88, of Fenton, passed away Sunday, January 29, 2023 in Punta Gorda, FL from complications due to Merkel Cell Carcinoma.  Services will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, May 6, 2023 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Fenton Chapel, 1000 Silver Lake Road, Fenton (A live stream of the service will be available on Jim's obituary page at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com).  Visitation will be held at the funeral home Saturday May 6, 2023 from 11:00 AM until the time of the service.  Those desiring may make contributions to Fenton Community Foundation, Goodwill Industries or  Fenton Veterans Park, checks payable; to City of Fenton, Attention Veterans Board, 301 S. Leroy Street, Fenton, MI. 48430.

Jim was born June 23, 1934 in Melrose, IL, the son of August and Welma (Glidewell) Saule.  He served in the U.S. Army before receiving a Bachelor's in Architectural Engineering from the University of Illinois.  He married the love of his life, Betty Jane Crews on May 20, 1961.  Jim resided in Fenton for the past 56 years coming from Joliet, IL.  After working for Gibbs and Associates in Grand Blanc, Jim opened up his own architecture firm, Saule & Associates and designed several buildings and homes in the Fenton area including all three of his personal residences. Prior to retirement, he spent 19 years working at SSOE Group, where he managed the Troy office and served on the Board.  He was active in the community as a member of the American Institute of Architects, Fenton Rotary, the XX Club and served as President of the local Jaycees, Fenton Kiwanis Club, and Goodwill Industries.  Jim loved building things with his hands, snowbirding to Florida, golfing, socializing with his friends and spending time with his family.

Surviving are: his wife of 61 years, Betty; son, James A. (Crystal) Saule of Indian River, MI/Punta Gorda, FL; daughter, Julie S. (Gordon) Smith of Golden, CO; grandchildren, Heather Saule, Max Smith, Chase Smith, Kali Smith, Kellie (Michael) George and Nick (Stefanny) Palm; and nieces, nephews and six great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jodi Saule; sisters, Elaine Simpson and Beverly Peake.  Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.