Enio “Jim” Pala, age 99 of Canton, passed away July 31, 2026. He was born May 1, 1927, in Fairbank, Pennsylvania to Antonio and Maddalena Pala.

When Jim was 16, he moved to Michigan to join his sisters. From then on, Jim spent some time in Detroit until he settled in Dearborn. Holding several jobs throughout his younger years, Jim worked in the Wonder Bread factory, and became an usher for the Fox Theatre, having the fortunate luck to rub elbows with Frank Sinatra and Joe Louis. He spent most of his professional career with Vernors, where he started as a truck driver. Transferring to the sales division, Jim repeated the rank as a top salesman during his 38 years with the company. Shortly after, Jim took a position with Northwest Airlines before officially retiring at the age of 63.

Drafted into service twice, Jim first served with the U.S. Army during WWII before being called back to serve during The Korean War. Throughout his time in the Army he was awarded sharpshooter and bootcamp MVP.

A chance encounter at a church festival gave Jim the opportunity to meet Loretta Donnelly. After months of insistence to take her on a date, Loretta eventually gave in, and the two became official. They were married on May 22, 1965, in St. Clement Parish in Dearborn. He was a wonderful husband, who became a loving father, and an amazing grandfather, doting on his cherished family every step of the way.

Jim’s faith influenced much of his life. He was a devout Catholic and became a Fourth Degree member with the Knights of Columbus. He was especially devoted to our Blessed Mother, as he and Loretta prayed the Rosary throughout their days together. He was a genuinely happy man who had a charitable heart. His outgoing nature served him well in life, making friends wherever he went. He looked forward to traveling the world, with the beauty of Ireland and Italy being among his favorite destinations. When it came to summertime at home, nothing beat listening to the ballgame while smoking a good cigar. Jim was a mentor to many and enjoyed many great debates throughout his days. Whether it be his guidance by instruction or looking over your shoulder, his intentions were always of the best nature. He will be so deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jim was the beloved husband of Loretta for 61 years. Loving father of Anne Marie Fisher and Joanne “Jodi” Bello. Proud grandfather of Alexis, Cole, Domenico and Skylar. Dear brother of the late Catherine Santicchia and the late Mary Raymond. He was also a great father-in-law to Ron Fisher and Bill Bello.

Visitation for Jim will be held on Tuesday, August 4th, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at McCabe Funeral Home, 851 N. Canton Center Rd., Canton. He will lie in state on Wednesday, August 5th, at 10:00 a.m., until the time of his Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m., at St. Thomas a’Becket Catholic Church, 555 S. Lilley Rd., Canton. Following the Mass, he will be laid to rest in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jim’s name can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Operation Smile.