ADRIAN – James Martin Silberhorn, age 86, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2014 at Provincial House. He was born in Riga, Michigan on September 2, 1928. He graduated from Blissfield High School in 1946 and then entered the United States Navy, serving for four years. Upon his discharge, he returned home and entered Adrian College graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1958. He also attended Eastern Michigan University, receiving his Master’s Degree in Special Education in 1963.
On June 4, 1955, he married Lois Ann Hahn. To this union were born two children, Eric and Michele. Lois Ann passed away on December 28, 1996.
James began his teaching career at Madison School in Adrian in September, 1960. In 1961 he accepted a teaching position at Adrian Training School, retiring as principal in 1993 after 33 years in education.
On September 18, 1998, James married Margarete Saxton. He is survived by his wife Margarete; two children, Michele Silberhorn of Royal Oak, Michigan Eric (Carole) Silberhorn of Columbia, Maryland; two brothers, Jack Silberhorn of Britton, Michigan and Gene (Sue) Silberhorn of Bena, Virginia; four stepchildren, Jeanette (Pat) Loveless of Midland, Michigan, Greg Saxton of Midland, Michigan, Jeff (Kari) Saxton of Dimondale, Michigan, Jennifer (Mark) Tomas of West Bloomfield, Michigan; and special step grandchildren, Hannah Loveless, Jack Tomas and Katelyn Tomas.
James enjoyed many hobbies over the years including sailing, sports cars, collecting and selling antiques and gardening after retirement.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Rosa (Hauf) Silberhorn, sister, Magda Ann Williams and brother, Lee Silberhorn.
A memorial service will be held at Wagley Funeral Home, Sunday, December 14, 2014 at 2 p.m. with Rev. Chris Brundage officiating. A reception will follow the service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Adrian Public Library or Hospice of Lenawee. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com.
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