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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

James Pletz

James A. Pletz, aged 65 of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026.  A man of precision and passion, Jim spent his career building things that lasted.   He rose through the various levels at R.C. Fabricators to become head of engineering, a role he held with great pride and dedication.

When he wasn’t drafting fabrication and building plans at the office, Jim cheered for his beloved Phillies from within Citizen’s Bank Park or from home during televised broadcasts.  He was a man who valued clarity and logic; if a conversation strayed too far from the heart of the matter, he was quick to gently remind his family or colleagues, “you’re missing the point.”

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Ellen, and his children, Brian Pletz of Wilmington, Delaware, Sarah Staley of Wilmington, Delaware, and (stepdaughter) Amy Bourett of Swedesboro, New Jersey.  He is also survived by his siblings, Phyllis Pletz, Dean Pletz, and Margaret Hulburt.  He was a proud grandfather of six: Zachary, Elena, Kayleigh, Alex, Savannah and KJ.  He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, a love for the game, and a reminder to always keep our eyes on what truly matters.

The family would like to thank his medical team for the care and attention they gave Jim over the many years that he dealt with ALS:  Dr. Lauren Elman and team at Penn Medicine, and Dr. Jamie Rapacciuolo of Christiana Care.

Funeral Services

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mid-Atlantic chapter of the ALS Association.  A memorial service will be held later in the spring at the New Ark United Church of Christ.

Condolences

    Lisa Thornton lit a candle and writes,
    My heartfelt condolences to Mr Pletz’ wife Helen, his family & friends. He is safe in God’s merciful care and memory. The Bible says “There is going to be a resurrection” of our loved ones, a chance for them to live again in perfect health and happy on a restored paradise earth. May the hope you gain from confidence in God’s promises bring comfort to your hearts. John 5:28, Acts 24:15, Rev.21-3-5
    04/16/2026 01:19 pm
    Eleanor J. White writes,
    Dear Ellen , my sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of Jimmy. He was a wonderful person. I always enjoyed his conversations with me at R. C. Fabricators, My prayers and thoughts are with you during this very difficult time. I was always happy when I received his Christmas card. He was very thoughtful and caring. He was happy for me when I told him that I was retiring and I appreciated his thoughts. Jimmy is now at peace and free of pain. You were a beautiful couple and my hope is that your memories will last forever. In sympathy, Eleanor White
    04/16/2026 02:22 pm

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