Obituary of James Leija

James "Jim" Leija, 68, died Monday July 1 at his Warren, Michigan home due to underlying health conditions. Born March 12, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan to Felix and Constance, he has eight surviving siblings. He had a lengthy career as an engineer for the Chrysler automotive company and later achieved his Bachelors Degree in 2005. He took great pride in receiving a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in 2007, becoming the first in his family to achieve this distinction. His great hopes were for a Tigers World Series, rain for his vegetable garden, and the happiness of his family. He is survived by his lifelong partner Mary Beth, sons James Paul and spouse Aric Knuth, Jeffrey and spouse Lauren, daughter Jennifer and partner Derek, and his crazy dog Zora. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Forgotten Harvest or the Humane Society of Huron Valley. A memorial service and luncheon will be held on July 13, from 11-3pm at Encore Banquet Hall in St. Clair Shores, Michigan (21801 East 9 Mile Road). Condolences can be sent to the family at 22412 St. Gertrude, St. Clair Shores, MI 48081.