Mr. James Christopher Mason

Celebrating The Life Of James Christopher Mason: James Christopher Mason's life began when God "loaned" him to his parents, Charles A. Mason and Pearline Mason, in Detroit, Michigan on November 20,1981. He was the youngest of their three children. As the baby of the family, James' brother and sister always looked after, protected and took him along with them (even when he outgrew them). Their relationship was phenomenal! He was a child that was loved by all. To know him was to love him. James along with his great-grandmother (the late Mrs. Annie P. Fry), mother and siblings all attended Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church, and he was baptized at the age of six under the leadership of the late Reverend Roy A. Allen Sr. As a child he joined the Children's Choir, attended Sunday School, Vacation Bible School; and as an adult became a member of the Voices of Praise Choir and Eva Allen Scholarship Ministry. James excelled in school. He attended both Catholic and Detroit Public School systems graduating from Henry Ford High School in 1999 as Class Salutatorian, President of Student Council, Senior Class Vice President, Vice President of National Honor Society, and to no one's surpise...voted Class Opinionated. In 2005, he earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Wayne State University. Even though his passion originally was teaching History, James found himself quickly advancing in the hospitality industry with various Marriott Hotels in Michigan, Virginia, Pennsylvania, back to Michigan, and finally to Minnesota in 2014. He was a dedicated, hard working employee that advanced to the position of Senior Rooms Operations Manager for the Minneapolis Marriott City Center. He managed over 200 plus employees throughout his career. Because of James' understanding, support and thoughtfulness for his employees, he was loved, respected and admired as a manager and co-worker; but most importantly as a friend. James always took pride in himself to be well groomed from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet. He believed in being dressed to impress. He had a style of his own, and a sense of humor that always kept everyone laughing. James was not blessed with any children of his own, but he loved his nephews that affectionately called him "Unc-Unc" until they were older and could call him "Uncle James" a title he wore proudly. He purchased and gave them any and everything he thought they wanted for birthdays, report cards, soccer games, Christmas or just because he thought they may have wanted it. Being surrounded with family was very important to James, and he treasured every opportunity to unite with them. He always attended the various events (birthdays, reunions, vacations, holidays, picnics, and more). He never hesitated to make his famous macaroni and cheese because everyone always expected it to be on the menu. Unfortunately in July of 2015 James went on disability, but that did not discourage him. Even though he was battling his illness, he worried about others instead of himself (that was just our James). His love and concern for all won the hearts of many at the Hennepin County Cancer Center and Hospital. He could not have asked for a better team of doctors and staff. James' charming smile, bright eyes, wonderful personality and his hugs of love were always a delight. On Monday, April 18, 2016, at 9:18 AM in Minneapolis, MN God saw that James was tired, and opened his arms to welcome him into His kingdom.

Mr. James Christopher Mason

November 20, 1981 - April 18, 2016