Age 79.

After graduating from high school, Jim was drafted into the military and served one year in Vietnam with the First Cavalry Division, stationed out of Fort Hood, Texas. In 1971, he married the love of his life, Mary Ann, and together they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage. Jim dedicated 40 years of hard work to Ford before retiring. He had a deep love for music, enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and made the most of life’s simple pleasures—his cottage on the lake, bonfires, relaxing by the pool, and winters spent in Florida as a snowbird, where he loved golfing with his friends. At the age of 75, Jim proudly checked off two bucket-list adventures—zip lining and white-water rafting—sharing those unforgettable moments with his daughters and grandchildren. One of his most meaningful experiences was participating in an Honor Flight, where he finally received the heartfelt welcome home he deserved for his service in Vietnam. Jim truly loved life and often said he had a good one—and those who knew him would wholeheartedly agree.

Beloved husband of Mary Ann. Loving father of Marie (Benjamin) Woodward, Kimberly (Jeremy) Little, and Michelle (Kevin) Murray. Cherished grandfather of Abby and Ava Woodward, Jaelyn and Riley Little, and Bella, Austin, Mia, Kyle, and Kevin Jr. Murray. Cherished brother of Thomas Taube, John (Carolyn) Taube, and the late JoAnn Cleveland, Francis Lesner, and Anthony Taube. Dear son of the late Francis and Helen Taube.

Visitation Monday 2-8pm with a 7pm Evening Service at the John N. Santeiu & Son, Inc., 1139 N. Inkster Road, Garden City (between Ford Road and Cherry Hill). In state Tuesday 10:30am until the 11am Funeral Service at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 31530 Beechwood (at Merriman Road, 2 blocks north of Ford Rd.).

In lieu of flowers memorials suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.