James Mark Vanzo

ADRIAN- James Mark Vanzo, 88, of Adrian died on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at the Hospice of Lenawee Home with his family by his side. James took the time to jot down a few of his antidotes and life experiences to share. I was born on February 14, 1934 in Indiana Harbor, Indiana, a town that like me, no longer exists. My birth cut short my mother’s trip to the Indiana Theater where she was planning to pick up a soup bowl on “dish night”. Instead of the bowl she got me, a bad trade, I think. I attended Ball State University where I played football and little else. I married Judith Ann Hale, a woman who deserved far better than me. I sired two children; Mark a son, and Michele a daughter, both of whom will never know how much I loved them. After leaving the US Army, I attended 6 universities and taught high school for 36 years. I won several scholarships including a Fulbright scholarship. I loved books and reading, a passion that accompanied me throughout my life, just ask anyone who knew me well. I travelled to about 30 countries and was always curious about literally everything. During my time on earth, I have met scores of people, some of whom I loved dearly, most of whom wouldn’t know me now from Adam’s off ox, and a few that were such jerks that their very existence called into question the assumption of an intelligent creator. I leave behind six grandchildren, Amy, Michele, Tim, Nick and Lilly from my son, and James from my daughter (you can put all those names in the dearly loved column). I was preceded in death by my mother Elizabeth, my father John, and my brother Robert, all their deaths snuffing out the brightest stars in my sky. I am survived by my sister Virginia of Westville Indiana, and my longtime companion Beverly who always gave me great comfort and purpose. I approached my own death with both curiosity and trepidation. (Curiosity because it would be a new experience, and trepidation in case the bible thumpers were right). I never felt that God could be as petty and vindictive as some others make him out to be. But, just in case he is, I hope whoever buries me remembers to put me in asbestos underwear. So goodbye people, life has been interesting, if a bit pointless. I would much rather you go out and have a few drinks, hear some music, and enjoy a decent meal than shed any tears for me. Think of me now and again as I was in life, paying respects to my remains is secondary in any case. If you do find the time to come to my funeral, just know that I will be headed into eternity as I was around the house, in my favorite shirt, suspenders and comfortable blue jeans. I would like you to come as I knew you in life; this is no time for superficiality. There will be a Gathering of Family and Friends to celebrate James on Sunday, December 18, 2022 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Wagley Funeral Home in Adrian. Come join us as we laugh and share stories about James and his many adventures in life. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to . Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.wagleyfuneralhomes.com. If you wish to donate to Hospice of Lenawee you may follow this link. https://www.hospiceoflenawee.org/donate.php

James Mark Vanzo

February 14, 1934 - December 13, 2022