James Black

James E. Black passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025 at the age of 88 years old. He was born in Alabama and grew up in Port Clinton, Ohio, where he met and married his beloved wife, Darlene (Ballreich). He attended Ohio State University where he was one of the few walk-on football players accepted to the team under the coaching of Woody Hayes. He went on to graduate from Valparaiso University in Indiana. He became a brilliant electrical engineer, working on esteemed projects such as the escape pod from the Apollo 13 and the robotics for the Pontiac Fiero. He could fix just about anything. Jim was an amazing husband, father and grandfather. He was extremely involved with his wife and daughters, including founding the Sundance Kids 4-H Club and attending horse shows, choir, band and orchestra concerts and church events. He also was his grandchildren's biggest fan, cheering them on at soccer, wrestling and football games, theatre productions, church events, Girl Scouts and Cub scouting events and gymnastics competitions. One of his proudest moments was when the car that he helped his grandson Kenny build won first place at the Pinewood Derby. Jim had a heart of gold and was always so happy when he could help other people. He completely restored an 1836 farmhouse and helped renovate his daughters' homes as well. He loved nature and had a small farm where he grew apples, vegetables and grapes, which he would make into homemade wine. He was an avid golfer and loved to metal detect at the family cottage in Lexington and even travelled abroad to discover amazing finds in the UK. He was an active member at Trinity Lutheran Church where he was so happy to serve the Lord. He is joining his loving wife of 59 years, Darlene, and his parents, Ida Louise and Ivan Black. He leaves behind his daughters, Kathryn Black, and Cheryl Jackson (Russell), two cherished grandchildren, Kenneth James and Anneliese Rachel, and numerous beloved family members. His funeral will be this Saturday, April 12th at Trinity Lutheran Church (45160 Van Dyke, Utica, MI). Visitation will be at the church from 10 AM to 11 AM and the service will be at 11 AM.

James Black

August 22, 1936 - April 8, 2025