James Lewis Caldwell IV's Obituary
James “Jim” Lewis Caldwell IV, age 76, passed away suddenly on May 3, 2026, while battling cancer and its complications. Jim is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 46 years, Barb Caldwell, and his four favorite daughters, who adored him: Sarah (Chris) Potter, Lindsay (Eric) Dumais, Kit (Matt) Christie, and Maddie (Wes) Thompson. He was a proud and devoted “Jubba” to his cherished grandchildren: Claire, Laina, Calvin, Emmy, Hazel, Lewis, Theo, Dean, and Clark. He is also survived by his siblings, Chris (Ginny) Caldwell, Judy (Lou) Lafage, and Patty (Phil) Bender; his brother- and sister-in-law, Dan and Elaine McMahon; Jan and Tom Wilson; his eleven nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Patty Caldwell; his in-laws, Ray and Lorraine McMahon; his brother, Dick Caldwell; his brother-in-law, Mike McMahon; and his nephews, Clark Caldwell and Brian Caldwell. Jim grew up in East Grand Rapids, MI, and spent his summers in his happy place on the shores of Lake Michigan in Grand Haven. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Monmouth College and went on to earn an MBA from the University of Michigan. In 1980, he married Barb McMahon, and together they built a wonderful life raising their four daughters in Birmingham, MI, while continuing to spend summers in Grand Haven. Jim dedicated over 30 years of his career to commercial banking at The National Bank of Detroit/JPMorgan Chase before retiring in 2007 as a senior officer. In retirement, he enjoyed having more time for family and adventure including traveling, golf, sailing, boating, fishing, pickleball, moonshining, reading, playing the ukulele, and daily Rummikub games with Barb. He took great pride in caring for his 1890s cottage, “Camp Wahoo,” and his Model A Woody Wagon. Jim and Barb were fortunate to call both Grand Haven, MI, and Pelican Sound in Estero, FL, home, where they built lasting friendships. Known to many as “Jimbo,” he will be remembered for his welcoming personality, infectious smile, and gift for storytelling. His family was his greatest joy, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on through the stories, traditions, and love he leaves behind. A CELEBRATION OF LIFE will be held on June 17, 2026, at The Spring Lake Country Club, 17496 N. Fruitport Rd. Spring Lake, MI. 49456 from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM with a time of sharing at 4:00 PM. The family kindly requests that friends and loved ones share photos, stories, and special memories for an electronic memory book being created in Jim’s honor. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim's memory to the Kitchel-Lindquist-Hartger Dunes Fund at the Grand Haven Community Foundation, 6 Sherman Ave, Grand Haven, MI. 49417. Arrangements through The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave. Grand Haven, MI. 49417.
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