Jay Christopher Wollam

Jay “Chris” Christopher Wollam, age 58, of Newberry, Michigan, died on November 14, 2025, at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital. He was born on April 14, 1967, in Toledo, Ohio, to Carroll and Betty (Puckett) Wollam. Chris grew up in Ottawa Lake, Michigan, and graduated from Whiteford High School with the class of 1985. In 1990, he joined the United States Marine Corps and was discharged shortly after due to a training-related injury. Throughout his life, he spent many years living in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a place he loved deeply. Chris had a generous heart, especially when it came to young people. He devoted ten years to helping youth as a direct care worker at Teaching Family Homes of Upper Michigan’s Newberry campus. In 2012, he began traveling for work as an environmental inspector on the pipeline, a role that allowed him to contribute to one of his great passions - caring for the environment. Animals held a special place in Chris’s life. He loved his dogs and made it a priority to give back to local shelters by donating food and toys. He also cherished time spent with his friends, family, and his brothers from McMillan Lodge #400 Free & Accepted Masons. A proud and dedicated Mason, Chris was a member of the McMillan Lodge #400 F&AM, Ahmed Shriners Newberry Shrine Club, Valley of Michigan Scottish Rite Masons, and the Brothers of the Rite. Chris was happiest outdoors, whether hiking, fishing, kayaking, camping at Simmons Woods, two-tracking with his Jeep, or tending to his garden. He loved cheering on the Detroit Red Wings and attended as many games as he could. He also enjoyed reading and listening to music, finding peace and joy in both. Chris is survived by his daughters, Ashley Freed of Newberry, Michigan, and Michelle Connizzo of Monroe City, Indiana; his beloved dogs, Patches and Dwight; sister, Terry Gerber of LaSalle, Michigan; brother, Tom Wollam of Ottawa Lake; and close cousin, Kimberly Knaggs of Holland, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carroll and Betty; grandparents, Cleo and Hazel Hammons; brothers, Randy Wollam and Mike Wollam; nephew, Rhys Wollam; and niece, Chrissie Wollam. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the McMillan Lodge #400 Free & Accepted Masons, 103 W. John St., Newberry, MI, 49868. A Masonic Memorial by the members of the lodge will follow. A luncheon will begin after both services are completed. Rev. Travis “TC” Tryon will be officiating the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Chris’ honor can be made to the Luce County Animal Shelter, 7351 Co Rd 391, Newberry, MI 49868, or the McMillan Lodge #400, 103 W. John St., Newberry, MI, 49868. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.

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Jay Christopher Wollam

April 14, 1967 - November 14, 2025