James J. "Jim" Bartkowiak's Obituary
James J. “Jim” Bartkowiak, age 78, passed away at home on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 17, 1946, to Chester and Doris (Michalak) Bartkowiak in Bay City, MI. He attended Divine Word Seminary in Perrysburg, OH and graduated in 1964. He continued his education at Saginaw Valley University where he received his bachelor’s degree in business in 1973. Jim was a dedicated employee of Howmet where he worked as a director of internal audit for 15 years before continuing his career working for the State of Michigan, where he retired from in 2009. On August 6, 1966, he married the former Linda Parker and together they cherished 34 years. She preceded him in death on February 18, 2001. Jim was lucky to have had a love strike twice and married the former, Barbara Blink, on March 22, 2002. They cherished 22 years full of love and laughter. Jim was a member of Calvin Christian Reformed Church, where he was part of the men’s prayer group and formerly very active in De Colores Ministries. In his earlier years, he was also an eagle’s scout. He had many hobbies over the years, whether it was working on or taking his Corvette out for a joy ride, taking pictures of the beauty nature offered, or escaping the Michigan winters to the sunshine state of Florida. Jim was a skilled wood worker creating baby cradles and a grandfather clock his family could cherish for years to come. He also was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and camping. Above all, he truly cherished the moments spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Bartkowiak; two children, Tim (Marne) Bartkowiak and Chris (Larry) Dion; stepchildren, Jeffrey (Sarah) St. Amour and Jennifer (Jerry) Brady; 9 grandchildren, Nathan (Brittany) Dion, Amber (Aaron) Schumann, Trevor (Aidee) Bartkowiak, Noelle Bartkowiak, Madison Bartkowiak, Konnor St. Amour, Delaney St. Amour, Aine Brady and Padraig-Jeremiah Brady; seven great-grandchildren, Jonathon, Keira, Landon, Aiden, Ella, Liam and Landon; two brothers, Michael (Mary Lou) Bartkowiak and Thomas (Lori) Bartkowiak; sister, Tina Bartkowiak; numerous nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Linda Bartkowiak; and granddaughter, Brittny Dion. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Calvin Christian Reformed Church, 973 W. Norton Ave., Muskegon, MI 49441 with visitation one-hour prior. A Visitation with the family will be held from 4-8:00 PM on Monday, December 2, 2024, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial Contributions in Jim’s honor can be directed to the family. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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