James William Lowe, 85, of Sebastian, Florida, passed away Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022 at home surrounded by family, including his wife of 59 years, Rita Rae (Hammer) Lowe.

Jim was born in Vermillion County, Illinois on June 13, 1937, the son of William Franklin and Norma Genevieve (Howard) Lowe. He lived in Casey, Illinois until age 9 before moving to Erie, Michigan.

A diesel mechanic his entire adult life, Jim loved anything with motors. In 1959 he started his own company with friends, Alexis Diesel and Truck Services of Toledo, Ohio, retiring from the business in 2006.

On December 9, 1963, he married Rita. The couple made their home in Lambertville, Michigan, where Jim enjoyed riding his John Deere tractor and trailer around the backyard, much to the delight of his growing family of children and grandchildren.

Active in Model A Clubs, Jim traveled with his family to car shows, the kids dressed in the clothes of that era. In the 1970s, the Maumee Valley Riders Motorcycle Club member got his children involved in motocross racing, traveling the country in their motorhome. It sparked an enjoyment of RV camping that included trips to Florida, visits to his childhood hometown, and travels to NASCAR races (Jim was an avid fan).

Jim enjoyed his retirement in the warm weather and the loving company of his family. He spent his leisure time fishing, swimming, bicycling, and exploring the nature of Florida. His adventures included ziplining, kayaking, and a memorable trip with Rita to Hawaii.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife, Nancy Ann Mills.

He is survived by wife Rita, of Sebastian; his sister, Norma Alice Atkinson (Pete) of Smithville, Mississippi; his children, Bonnie Sue Simonelli of Garden, Michigan; William Richard Lowe (Renee) of Sebastian; Robert William Lowe (Roxanne) of Blissfield, Michigan; James William Lowe Jr. of Sebastian; Diann Rae Dinius (Larry) of Temperance; Teresa Lynn Lamb (Tom) of Nova, Ohio; Tina Rachel Lowe of Newport, Michigan; 26 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.