James Krieg

Born on June 16, 1930, in Marquette, James was the son of Charles and Edith (Liljeberg) Krieg. He was raised in Marquette and graduated from John D. Pierce High School with the class of 1949. He went on to attend Northern Michigan University and joined the National Guard before being called to active duty in the U.S. Navy, serving honorably during the Korean Conflict. He was discharged in August 1954.

Following his military service, James returned to NMU to complete his degree in education and began a lifelong career in teaching. He served as a teacher and athletic director in Ortonville, Engadine, and Pickford, before joining the NMU Skills Center where he taught Math and English for 16 years, retiring in 1986.

James had a passion for life and a wide array of interests. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing basketball and horseshoes, and was a talented guitarist and singer who recorded his own music. However, his family was the center of his life. He had a strong love for his family and was instrumental in assuring the Krieg family reunion happened every year, often at his home on the beach in Big Bay. He was active in the community as a member of the Marquette Elks Club, American Legion Post 44, and the Eagles Club.

Survivors include his brothers, Daniel Krieg of Gwinn, Ronald Krieg of Harvey, and William ‘Billy’ Krieg of Green Bay, WI; his sister, Joan Peterson of Salt Lake City, UT; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Richard ‘Red’ Krieg and Charles ‘Buddy’ Krieg; and sisters, Judy Trost and Ruth Johnson.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services from 10:00 am until the time of service at 12:00 pm. A memorial service with veterans honors will be held at 12:00 pm with Pastor Chad Mager officiating. A reception will follow in the funeral home reception room.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bay Cliff Health Camp, P.O. Box 310, Big Bay, MI 49808 or to UPAWS (Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter), 815 S. M-553, Gwinn, MI 49841.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.