James “Eli” Mathis, age 77, of Roscommon passed away on Monday August 15, 2022 at Mission Point of Roscommon with his loving family by his side.
Eli was born on September 1, 1944 in Sedro Woolley, Washington to Homer and JennaSue (Owen) Mathis. He served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War Era. Eli was married on February 8, 1969 in Topeka, Kansas to Shari M. Mehlen. The couple moved to Roscommon in 1988. He was a member of the Elks, Lions, American Legion and Optimist Club. Eli was a huge supporter of the Houghton Lake Boys Golf Team. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, softball and cars. Eli was an avid watcher of high school sports.
Eli is survived by his loving wife of 53 years; Shari Mathis of Roscommon, daughter; Kristi (Wally) Sidelko of Prudenville and son; Rob Mathis of Roscommon, grandchildren; Bailey Decker, Brock Decker and Cameron Sidelko, sisters; Georgia Hatch of Atlanta, Georgia and Glenda (Sonny) VanVleck of Winlock, Washington. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother; Justin Mathis, sister; Rema Newton, brother-in-laws; Bob Newton and Gary Hatch and sister-in-law; Marilyn Mathis.
A Celebration of Life will be held at White Deer Country Club on Sunday August 28, 2022 from 1-4 pm. Interment will be in Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. In-lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be directed to Roscommon County Commission on Aging toward the Meals-on-Wheels Program located at 1015 Short Drive Suite A, Prudenville, Michigan 48651. Christler Funeral Home-Prudenville Chapel is serving the family. Condolences can be sent to the family online at www.christler-holdship.com
