James Jacobson, 83
Feb. 15, 1927 — Dec. 29, 2011

James “Jim” “Jake” Leroy Jacobson, 83, of Niles, died Dec. 29, 2011.

Jim was born to Lena and Leroy Jacobson on Feb. 15, 1927. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II and developed his love of aviation. He was then employed by National Standard until his retirement. Jim also auctioneered and co-owned (with former wife Katherine) a busy auction house on U.S. Highway 12 in Niles.

Jim’s love of airplanes and aviation grew, often finding him either at the airport or in his plane flying. His passion for planes was part of the drive behind finding the local chapter 865 of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and was known as an “aviation historian,” often donating items and supplying important information on aircraft to museums, educational collections and even television.

He could often be seen at the area diners having coffee and attending weekly meetings at the Masonic Center in both Buchanan and Niles prior to his decline of health. He lived his final days at the Masonic Pathways in Alma, Mich., with his fellow lodge brothers.

He was preceded in death by parents, Lena and Leroy; brother, Harold; daughter, Lynda Lowry; and his faithful canine companion, Pinky.

He leaves behind sons, Martin (Judy) Jacobson of Potosi, Wis., Kenneth (Sandy) Jacobson of Fort Wayne, Ind.; daughter, Donna (Nathaniel) Ingles of Gloucester, Va.; and son-in-law, Raymond Lowry of Tucson, Ariz.; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

A local memorial service will be held at a later date.