Jim Lohr - In Memoriam

Photo of Thursday Guys fall 2022 - Jim Lohr in driver's seat, Mat Baynard on his right, Jerry Garey on the left, and Bob Musch on the right.

This winter has been a hard season for Camp Mardela - losing 2 beloved "Thursday guys" within months of each other. We shared this picture just a few months ago in memory of Jerry Garey (bottom left). And now, we are sharing it in memory of Jim Lohr (top center - in the driver's seat).

Jim Lohr had an incredible spirit - always wanting to share stories, teachable moments, and especially songs. We got to visit him in the hospital and had a wonderful time reminiscing as we sang songs from the Camp Mardela song books. He even taught us a few we had never heard before!

Jim Lohr showing off his Grandpa shirt on a Thursday morning in 2024

On the Thursday crew, Jerry's specialty was with a paint brush, and Jim's was with a chainsaw. He was the lumberjack extrordinaire, and was the first one we called for our tree problems. Even in the hospital, Jim was concerned about the trees that had fallen from the last big snow we had. That is an incredible testament to how much camp meant to him - that even in his weak moments, he was always thinking about how he could help Camp Mardela.

During that visit, he also recounted getting to make applesauce and ice cream at Family Camp this fall, and fondly remembered teaching some of the young boys there how to make it for the first time, as he oversaw their operation. One of the great joys of his life truly was teaching people - especially young people.

Jim Lohr was also a singer. He sang in the Easton church choir, and always attended the Tidewater Singers concerts. He sang many camp songs, and was quite the song leader. He is remembered fondly for his Family Camp talent show performances of song and drama. As I think about Jim Lohr, a song continues to echo in my head. He sang it a few times on Thursdays, and again the last time we visited him.

Jim Lorh (blue and red flannel shirt) helping campers make homemade ice cream at Family Camp 2025

Oh it's nice to get up in the mornin

When the sun begins to shine

Or three or four or five o clock

In the good old summer time.

When the wind is blowin

And it's murky overhead (he stressed that you must roll your "r" here for an authentic performance)

Oh it's nice to get up in the morning

But it's nicer to stay in bed.

Jim & Loretta Lohr working together to peel an apple to make applesauce at Family Camp - 2025

Intertwined with the laughter of Jerry Garey, will be the melodious singing of Jim Lohr ringing through the woods of Camp Mardela. He will forever be remembered here for the music he brought to all of us - whether through the hum of his chainsaw, the things he taught us, or the songs he sang.