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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