James Erwin "Jim" Pond's Obituary
James Erwin “Jim” Pond, age 80, passed away Sunday, October 27, 2024. He was born January 10, 1944 in Jackson, MI, to Erwin and Edna (Jackson)Pond. Jim was a 1962 graduate of Dowagiac High School where he played baseball, football, and played the trombone in the band. He then earned his Bachelor of Science degree from New Mexico State University followed by his Master’s in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan. Jim served his country in the U.S. Army from 1968-1970. He started his working career in 1970 at Clark Equipment, Axle division in Buchanon, MI. But his passion was designing military vehicles for the future of our national defense which lead him to work with a Teledyne Continental Motors development group in Warren, MI, then to Chrysler Defense, also of Warren, National Water Lift in Kalamazoo, MI, and finally ending up at Teledyne Land Systems in Muskegon in 1980. He retired from General Dynamics, Muskegon in 2011 after 30 years having become well known and respected in his field. His knowledge and expertise recently lead to part time employment by Mettle Ops, a defense contractor in Sterling Heights, MI from February 2022 until this summer.
On September 3, 1966, he married Charlotte J. Polivka in Lawton, MI and they enjoyed 58 years together. Jim loved his many family pets over the years, enjoyed taking photos, and game nights playing Farkle and Scrabble. He was a prolific reader of history and other nonfiction. Reading meant he was always learning. Jim was always positive and upbeat and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Charlotte, daughter, Jennifer Pond, DVM of Flushing, MI, and a sister, Christine (Steve) Northrup of Jones, MI.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held from 4-7 PM on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at the Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services Family Center, 6291 S. Harvey Street, Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100. MEMORIALS to Hospice of Michigan will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at the online guest book at www.systemafh.com
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