Sad to hear the news. So many fun memories of You, Tony and I hanging out together. You were such a talented and loving human being. Just the other day I found some poetry you wrote for my magazine from the early 80's. So brilliant.

Steve Van Dreese
Friend

Sturgeon Bay teammate and friend. Taught me a lot. Great leader on and off the court. To this day one of the best high school basketball players I've  ever seen. What I remember the most was James ability to get along with people from all walks of life.

My thoughts are with the family

I got to play one year of high school basketball with James when he was a sophomore. Tremendous shooter and great teammate.  I got to catch up with him years later and followed his career. Very talented young man. So sad to hear of his passing. My sympathies to his family and friends.

To the loved ones of Jim,

In three days of our workshop at Write On! Door County this past summer, Jim came to mean so much to me. He was an exceptional person and gifted writing teacher, and it breaks my heart that we won't have more time to share the pastime we both loved so much.  

I am now especially thankful to have reconnected with Jim in December at an online holiday workshop, and rather than mourn the conversations we hoped to have beyond that day, I will bask in my incredibly good fortune to have at least spent the time in his class that I did.  I feel his legacy every time I struggle to write, when his incredibly generous, compassionate thoughts on my writing encourage me to continue moving forward.  

Thank you forever, to Jim and to his loved ones.  All my best, today and always, Liz Fox

Jim had the heart and wisdom of a gifted teacher, mentor and coach. He had the ability to generate imagination and creativity in people so that writing could flourish. I benefitted immeasurably from his wit, talent, encouragement and gentle nature in workshops at Write On Door County. He will be forever missed.

I knew Jim only as a very supportive writing instructor. His very kind and gentle encouragement has moved me to get back to working on a book I started years ago.  In fact, we were to meet in LA to talk about him coaching me--instead, I'll just keep him in my head and dedicate the book to him.  What a loss to the world.

Rest in peace, Jim. I so enjoyed our visits and conversations. Thank you for your frequent calls to Mike when he was sick and for giving the eulogy at his funeral.  You will be missed. 
Condolences to Margaret, Elizabeth, Gary and your Father.

James 
You were more than a friend, you were a brother to me.  Thank you for making all the people you touched a better person. I will take you  everywhere where I go and pass along your good spirit. 
Until we meet again 
James Cordier

Years and years of time spent together. So many memories made. You will always hold a special place in my heart. 

May you rest in peace.

OBITUARY

James Frank Mihaley

September 29, 1962 – February 1, 2024

Valley Funeral Home

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