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May 1, 2018

James L. Kareck Died April 28, 2018


James Louis Kareck passed away on April 28, 2018, with his wife by his side.  Jim and Joan have been enjoying their retirement years in Leland, just north of Traverse City, Michigan.  Jim was an avid outdoorsman who loved to play golf, fish, and maintain his home.  He served as an Assistant in the Pro Shop at the Leland Country Club, where he proudly assisted countless golfers and scheduled matches. 

Jim was born in Grand Rapids on July 14, 1932.  He was an only child who grew up helping work the family farm.  After graduating from Union High School in Grand Rapids, Jim’s college career was paused when his country called upon him to serve. Jim proudly accepted his duty to serve in the US Army, which took him to Italy as a Military Police Sergeant. Upon his return, he completed his education and received a Bachelor’s degree from Albion College and a Master’s degree from Michigan State University.  Jim took a job teaching at Flint Central High School with an emphasis in physical education and biology.  He also coached the swim and golf teams, both of which earned multiple state championships.  His students hailed him as a motivator and mentor. He retired from Flint Central after 34 years.  During summer vacation, he would take his family on extended camping trips to Moore’s Campground on Lake Leelanau.  These getaways were the inspiration for Jim and Joan’s decision to retire in Northern Michigan.

Jim leaves behind his loving wife, Joan, of 58 years.  He is also survived by his three children:   Julie, John (wife Beckie), and David (wife Jenny).  His grandchildren are Kyle, Sarah, Josiah, Colton, Owen, Tatum, and his great grandson, Wesley.  He loved emailing his grandkids and hearing about their individual performances in school.  Even after Jim retired from teaching he continued to educate his children and grandchildren about life.

A Memorial Service will be held in the fall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Leelanau Conservancy, P.O. Box 1007, Leland, MI 49654.



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