James Jankow

James Jankow was born to Elsa and Edward Jankow January 16, 1923 in Detroit, Michigan. A self-made man, he excelled in sales all of his life: First as a clothing salesman for Fintex, where he learned to do alterations, then as a battery salesman for Edison, then he became involved as a partner at Clarklift of Toledo. Even after his retirement at age 65, he continued in sales for 11 more years in sales as a representative for Schult Homes. He was an army veteran, serving in the Army Air Corp as a pilot. He attained the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He learned alterations and created beautiful outfits for his wife and daughter. He upholstered. He was an artist with pen and ink, pencil, and watercolor. He made jewelry, he created lovely hand-tooled leather items, even built a car, and was a woodworking wizard. He was an actor with the Wyandotte Community Theater. His talent knew no bounds. He was a devoted husband and father, and truly a class act. We love you and miss you, Papa. He was preceded in death by his son, Jay, and wife of nearly 60 years, Jean. He leaves to cherish his memory, daughter Jennifer Holey, granddaughter, Sarah Holey-Schwartz (Aaron), grandsons, Gordon Holey (Jennifer Jean), and Peter Holey, as well as the latest addition to the family, great-grandson Maximus James Holey. A private memorial for friends and family will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be shared below: