James R. Metz

James was born on January 22, 1925 in Cantrall, the son of Daniel A. and Katherine C. McIntyre Metz. He married Lucille Bax on November 24, 1956 in Springfield.

James graduated from Lanphier High School and earned his bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy during WWII and was employed as an electrical engineer for the State of Illinois Department of Transportation until his retirement. James was a member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus #4175, and was Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus #364. He coached his daughter's softball teams, volunteered at St. John's Hospital as a Samaritan and with Third Age Living, and at Catholic Charities Food Pantry. James also volunteered with St. Joseph's Home Carpenter Club, and served on the St. Joseph's Home Board of Directors. He enjoyed hunting, gardening, and playing bridge.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Daniel and Larry Metz; and five sisters, JoAnn Metz, Eileen Lach, Helen Freeman, Betty Hughes, and Mary Louise Woloshyn.

He is survived by his wife, Lucille Metz of Springfield; son, Michael J. (wife, Janel) Metz of Glen Ellyn; two daughters, Diane (husband, Chris) Weed of Lakewood, CO and Mary Lynne (husband, Julian) Glenn of Maywood; four grandchildren, Erin Weed, Stone Metz, Grayson Metz, and Sydney Glenn; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 2119 N. 20th St., Springfield.

Funeral Mass: 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church with Rev. Clinton Honkomp, O.P., celebrant.

Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors provided by Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County and the United States Navy.

Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 2119 N. 20th St., Springfield, IL 62702 or St. Joseph's Home, 3306 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.