James R. Alderson

Jim was born on December 9, 1935, in Halifax, Virginia, to the late Archie and Rowena (Neaves) Alderson, Jr. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, as well as, a Master’s degree in Public Administration, both from Northern Michigan University.

Jim spent 34 years in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1987. He served in both the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam. After his military service, Jim taught for 12 years at Northern Michigan University in the Political Science Department.

He was a member of St. Peter Cathedral. Jim was a past board member and chairman of the Marquette County Board of Health. He also served 4 years on the board of Marquette County Social Services and the Marquette County Medical Care Facility. Jim served for a total of 20 years on the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians Elder Committee as a spousal member.

Survivors include his wife, Madeleine Alderson of Gwinn; his children, Annette Pierce, Tammy Jacobs and Scott (Skeeter) Alderson, all of Texas; siblings, Archie (Patricia) Alderson III, Randy Alderson, Betty Hayes and Patricia Alderson, all of Danville, VA; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Douglas Alderson.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 7th at 1p.m., in St. Peter Cathedral, with the Rev. Msgr. Michael Steber officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass in the Bishop’s Room of the cathedral. Burial will take place in the Epoufette Cemetery on Monday, August 9th at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jim’s name to St. Vincent de Paul Society, Room at the Inn, or in the form of Masses for the repose of Jim’s soul.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the Alderson family where memories of Jim may be shared at canalefuneral.com