James Dean Putzig

James Dean Putzig, 86, of Oakland Park, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, at the Alexander “Sandy” Nininger Veterans Nursing Home in Pembroke Pines, Florida, with his family at his bedside.

He was born on December 15, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Elmer J. Putzig and Florence (Bergeron) Putzig. He was the beloved husband of Mildred (Millie) Putzig, whom he married on November 29, 1969.

James attended Bloomfield Hills High School, Ferris State College, and Western Michigan University. Upon his graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. After completing basic training, he attended and graduated from O.C.S. and Airborne School. He served as a Basic Training Company Commander and as a Staff Officer at the brigade level.

While at Fort Jackson, Brother Putzig petitioned Doric Lodge No. 140 F.&A.M. and was raised in July of 1965. He then petitioned and was accepted into the Scottish Rite Valley of Columbia. After receiving his 32nd degree, he was initiated into Omar Shrine in Charleston, S.C.

Upon completing active duty, Brother Putzig returned to Fort Lauderdale, where he entered the York Rite of Freemasonry, subsequently presiding over all three of the York Rite Bodies at the county level. He served as Grand Master of Doric Lodge No. 140 F.&A.M. in 1979.

James was a printing broker by trade, usually leaving his clients in laughter after telling them one of his many jokes or stories. He was an outdoorsman, and although he loved fishing and hunting, his first priority was being a loving husband and father.

He is survived by his wife, Mildred (Millie) Putzig; his sons, James Jr. and his wife Donna, and John and his wife Jenny; and his beloved grandchildren, Mason, Kali, John Jr., Emmy (husband Jeremy), and Jack. He is also survived by his great-grandson, Sebastian.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025 from 11:00 - 1:00 at the KRAEER - FAIRCHILD FUNERAL HOME, 4061 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale. James' funeral service will take place immediately upon the conclusion of visitation. Entombment will follow in Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery.