Coach James E. Seeke

Born in Bessemer, Michigan on Jan. 19, 1940
Died on Aug. 4, 2008 and resided in Marquette, MI.

James E. Seeke, 68, of Harvey, died Monday morning at his home with family and Lake Superior Hospice in attendance.

He was born January 19, 1940, in Bessemer, Michigan, a son of the late Walter & Esther (Piispanen) Seeke.

Jim was a 1958 graduate of AD Johnston High in Bessemer and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Mankato State College in 1962.  His areas of study were Physical Education, English and History.

Jim was a great athlete, coach, and all around sports fan.  While attending college, he pitched for a semi-professional baseball team in Minnesota.  He taught and coached at the following Wisconsin schools after graduation: Richland Center Schools, Coleman High School and Homestead High School.  In 1968, he accepted a teaching position with the Department of Defense schools overseas and taught in Germany, Morocco, Turkey and Sicily.  He also served as the athletic director and coached many winning seasons for numerous sports that included football, wrestling, track, and soccer.  He was an avid “Packer backer” and big fan of the University of Michigan football.

Jim was well read and a big history buff.  Working overseas provided him and his family an opportunity to travel and experience many different cultures.  He also enjoyed other activities like photography, music, reading, fishing, and camping. 

After his teaching career, he worked for the US Fish and Wildlife Service. In retirement, he enjoyed spending time at the family cottage on Lake Independence in Big Bay, and he loved his grandchildren who made him happy and proud.

He is survived by his wife, Nadine Seeke, whom he married on August 20, 1960 in Bessemer, MI; three children, Timothy (Haeza) Seeke of Cedarburg, WI, Renee (Chris) Brayton of Howell, MI and Tom (Sarah) Seeke of Marquette; four grandchildren, Jason & Justin Seeke and Chet & Lila Brayton; brothers, Rodney (Sally) Seeke of Menomonee Falls, WI and Grant (Mary Kaye) Seeke of Green River, Wyoming; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by siblings, Milton, Patricia Yopps, Roger and infant brother.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. in the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home with Pastor Charles Tooman officiating.  Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Bay Cliff Health Camp in Mr. Seeke’s memory.

Mr. Seeke’s obituary may also be viewed at www.canalefuneral.com where relatives and friends can leave a note of remembrance.