James H. Climer

James H. Climer

Jim was born in Akron, Ohio and moved to Jackson, Michigan when he was 11 years old. In 1941 he graduated at the top of his class from East Jackson High School where he played football and basketball. With the war raging in Europe, he volunteered for the Navy V12 commissioning program and was accepted. He first attended Notre Dame University and was transferred to Iowa State University where he was Commissioned and received a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Jim met the love of his life, Jerry, on a blind date, three days after leaving the service. They were married 62 years until her death in 2010.
After getting married, Jim spent his career at Consumers Power Company in Jackson with a few years in Flint. He started as an intern overseeing powerline installation and worked his way up to Director of Rates and Research. He retired in 1987.

Always active in the community, Jim served on the Jackson Public School board for 7 years, the Girl Scout Council for 6 years, the Boy Scout Eagle Review Committee for 10 years, and a member of the Foster Care Review Board for 12 years and on its State Board Advisory Committee for 9 years. After Jerry passed, he established a Men's Alzheimer's Support Group. He was a member of Queen of the Miraculous Medal Church since returning to Jackson in 1962.

Jim moved to Vista Grand Villa in March 2012 where he continued his commitment to service by acting as President of the Residents Council for 5 years. He also truly enjoyed playing Bridge and Euchre, sharing meals, and telling stories with good friends.
He will be greatly missed his children: Linda (Lillie), Lisa, Paul, Kelly and Carrie (Omdal); brother Dick Climer; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place.  A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church at 11:30 AM with Father Timothy MacDonald officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Church on Saturday, October 2 from 10:30 to 11:30 AM.

Instead of sending flowers, contributions to the Alzheimer's Association would be appreciated.

Desnoyer Funeral Home
Family owned for 131 years