Fr. James E. Von Tobel, SJ, died Sept. 23 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He was 80.

Fr. Von Tobel was born March 31, 1936, in Detroit, graduated from University of Detroit Jesuit High School and entered the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) on Sept. 1, 1954. He was ordained June 14, 1967.

Fr. Von Tobel taught Latin and religion in Toledo, Ohio, and served in many roles for the Jesuits in Detroit, including as minister and socius to the novice master at the Colombiere Center in Clarkston, prefect of studies and vocations director. Later in his ministry, Fr. Von Tobel briefly served as associate pastor at Gesu Parish in Detroit (1978-81) and as the Jesuits’ provincial assistant for pastoral ministry. He served as superior and director of the Colombiere Center from 1994-99. In addition to his roles in the Detroit area, Fr. Von Tobel served in the dioceses of Cleveland, Marquette, Gaylord and Winona, Minn.

Fr. Von Tobel is survived by cousins and his fellow Jesuits. A funeral Mass was celebrated Sept. 28 at Gesu Church in University Heights, Ohio. Burial will be after a memorial Mass Sept. 29 at Colombiere Center in Clarkston.