Obituary of James Leonard Tanis

James (Jimmy) Leonard Tanis passed away at his home in Oakland, NJ on May 25, 2025 at the age of 75 years old. He was a loving son, brother, uncle, godfather, and a good friend to many.

Jimmy was born in Paterson, NJ on 3/26/50. He was the eldest son of the late Grace (née Titus) and Leonard Tanis. The family moved to Oakland in 1960, where he had resided ever since. When he was younger, Jimmy was a member of the Oakland Rangers Drum and Bugle Corp. For the majority of his working career, he was a truck driver and mechanic for DR Mullen Construction Company. More recently, he worked for Urban Landscape and Design as a truck driver. He joined the Oakland Fire Department in 1971, serving for 22 years, and was a lifetime member. As an avid NASCAR fan, Jimmy spent many Sunday afternoons watching the races.

Jimmy is survived by his brothers, Robert (wife Maryellen) of Ringwood, NJ and Leonard (wife Patricia) of Oakland, NJ; beloved nieces and nephews, Erin, Robert (wife Meagan), Carlin, Lauren, Brian, and Kaitlyn; and many dear friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center or the Oakland, NJ Fire Department.

Visitation will be on Saturday, 6/7/25 from 1-5pm, with services at 4:30pm, at Oakland Memorial Home; 330 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ.