Obituary of James M. Mielke

James "Jimmy" Martin Mielke, 62, of Travelers Rest, South Carolina, passed away July 13, 2023 at his home in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. He was born on May 14, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina to the late Charles and Alice (Hanahan) Mielke.

James was a proud member of the United States Air Force for over 20 years. He retired as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer as an expert in communications. Jimmy was charged with the safety and security of network communications, computer systems and most importantly network security. Following his distinguished career, Jimmy began work with the Department of Indian affairs as a network and communications administrator. When he was not working, Jimmy enjoyed spending time outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hiking and target shooting. Jimmy was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed flying small aircraft, and parachuting, not because he had to. Jimmy was strong in his Christian faith. He was steadfast in his faith and not ashamed to share with those who needed the comfort that scripture provides. Jimmy studied and found solace in prayer, even learning to read the Word in Hebrew.

James is survived by his brother, Charles L. "Chuck" Mielke, Jr. (Bonnie); sister, Catherine "Cathy" Rozier (Tim); nephews, Stephen Masters, James Rozier (Lydia), Chris Rozier; nieces, Karen Matheney (Daniel), Lindsey Wheeler (Lucas). He also leaves behind many other family members to treasure his memory.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Jim and Lois (Taylor) Hanahan, and Lew and Helen (Jones) Mielke.

The family will receive friends at Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29206, on Saturday, August 12, 2023 from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM. Funeral services will follow the family visitation in the chapel of the funeral home with Pastor Mark Bredholt officiating. Interment will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park following the chapel service with full military honors being rendered.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Epworth Childrens Home, or to the charity of one's choice.