James H. Goodwin, 75
James H. Goodwin of Scotts Michigan age 75 years passed away September 15th 2021 after sustaining fatal injuries from a tragic bicycle accident.
He was born to Raymond E. and Esther L. Goodwin on February 1st 1946 in Portage,Michigan. Jim was the second oldest of five brothers.
Jim attended Portage public schools where he graduated from in June of 1964.
Growing up during the post war years in a modest working class family, Jim learned that hard work and saving money were core values at any age. Prior to high school graduation he held many jobs such as being a soda jerk at Guinette’s pharmacy, working sales at fairs and sporting events for Hamel’s concessions, working on multiple farms doing various chores including baling hay and straw. He also worked on Saturday afternoons for Orrin B. Hayes dealership performing janitorial duties. On October 10th of 1964 Jim landed a position at National Water Lift company in Kalamazoo Michigan. The company would see many changes over the years. They started out building lift pumps for water and sewer and ended up building hydraulic units for aircraft. National Water Lift eventually became Parker corporation. Through all the changes including ownership Jim stuck it out until his retirement after 42 years.
As a retiree Jim was enjoying his fishing and hunting escapades all while staying very busy. He found himself doing odd jobs for friends, family and even neighbors. He was known for doing everything from home renovations, small engine repair to cutting/delivering firewood. Sometimes he would simply show up just to supervise. Jim was always known for lending an ear and was a true pillar to both the family and the neighborhood in Pavilion township where he will be greatly missed.
Jim is survived by his high school sweetheart and devoted wife of 57 years Alice Jane (Cape) Goodwin, his two sons Steve (Dorette) Goodwin of Lansing Michigan, Mike Goodwin of Portage Michigan, his two grandchildren Allison (John) Cole of Holt Michigan and Ben Goodwin of Lansing Michigan. He is also survived by his eldest brother Ron (Connie) Goodwin of Gobles Michigan, younger brother Marc (Kim) Goodwin of Kalamazoo Michigan and youngest brother Chris (Melissa) Goodwin of Vicksburg Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond Goodwin and Esther (Felthoff) Goodwin also by his younger brother John Goodwin.Jim leaves behind many cousins, nieces,nephews, friends and neighbors that will all be forever grateful to have had him in their lives.
Jim’s final wish was to donate his body to medical science. The family wishes to thank WMU Homer Stryker MD school of medicine for all their assistance in accomplishing this last request. Anyone that wishes to offer expressions of sympathy are encouraged to follow the link below and make a donation to the school’s medical science donation program.