James Paul Dietz

James Paul Dietz, Sr., 78, of Lawton, passed away peacefully in his home with his family at his side on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. 

He was born October 8, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Thaddeus and Ann Dietz. 

For the entirety of his career Jim worked in and was a co-owner of a local family-owned business. 

Jim was a dedicated member of the Lawton Fire Department for more than 50 years, where he was still active and had previously served as Chief, currently holding title of Past Chief. He took great honor in teaching and mentoring younger firefighters. His faith was particularly important to him, and he had been a longtime parishioner of St. Mary Catholic Church. It was at Saint Mary Church where Jim was united in marriage to Virginia (Elliott) Dietz on July 16, 1988. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family above all else. He enjoyed his trips to the casino with Ginny and playing games with the family. He loved being outdoors, tending his garden and took pride in his yard. Jim took pleasure in listening to his favorite polka music and observing Polish traditions, as well as classic car shows. 

Jim is survived by his wife, Virginia "Ginny" Dietz, two sons, Jim (Rose) Dietz and John (Evelyan) Dietz, two daughters, Karen Ampey and Danielle (Jeff) Triemstra, two stepdaughters, Barbara Elliott and Cheryl (late Mike) Smith, 16 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, one brother, Donald (Kathy) Dietz and one sister, Rita (late Dick) Pfister. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Thaddeus and Ann Dietz, stepson, Tom Zentmyer, brothers, Todd, Larry and Thomas Dietz and his grandson, Michael Swintz.

Family and friends are invited to visit Sunday, August 11, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Ave, Paw Paw. There will be a Rosary service at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will follow on Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Catholic Church, Paw Paw, with Rev. Fr. Alan P. Jorgensen officiating. Burial will conclude at Saint Mary Cemetery. There will be a luncheon following at the Lawton Fire Hall. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawton Fireman's Fund.