Muckenthaler, James John Sr., 75, of Riverview, FL was born in Detroit, MI in 1948 and died March 12, 2023. Jim proudly served in the US Air Force stationed at Takhli RTAFB, Thailand during the Vietnam War and Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, SC while stateside. After moving to Florida in 1985, Jim worked for Tampa Electric Company as a Mechanic/Certified Welder until retiring in 2013. Later on, he worked part-time for Advance Auto Parts where he would deliver to their Commercial Accounts.
He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Jane Franklin Muckenthaler and 3 children Lauren Gibbons (Ken), James Muckenthaler, Jr. (Nicole) and Bryan Muckenthaler. He is also survived by 5 beloved grandchildren, his 98-year-old mother, Inez, and brother Dennis Muckenthaler, a sister-in-law and brother-in-law and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Rudolph and many relatives from Michigan.
Jim enjoyed fishing, hunting and playing with his beloved dogs. When his children were younger, he was always there for them helping with school projects, being a Boy Scout Leader, baseball coach, even teaching them to drive a stick shift car. He was their mentor and was always there to take care of them in any way they needed. When his grandchildren came along he enjoyed spending time with them, he always looked forward to the days when he would take or pick them up from school, and watching them participate in school and sport activities
Throughout his life, Jim was constantly joking and laughing, adding light to most conversations. His work ethic, determination and some of his personality traits were handed down to his children and grandchildren who have excelled in life, sports and vocation. For this, we are forever grateful.
Services will be held at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 11:30 a.m. with a reception to follow at VFW Post # 10137 Bushnell, Florida. All are welcome to attend. In memory of Jim, please consider a donation to Southeastern Guide Dogs, Attn: Paws for Patriots 4210 77th Street East, Palmetto, FL 34221 (941)729-5665.