James "Jim" Edward Scarpace

James "Jim" Edward Scarpace, age 85, of Shelby Township, MI passed away Thursday, April 18, 2024, at his home, with his family by his side. Jim was born in Detroit to John and Rose Scarpace on May 28,1938. He grew up with his parents and sister, Carole, born 1942. Jim graduated form Southeastern High School where he played basketball and baseball. After high school he enlisted in the army and served two years in Oklahoma and Germany as a radio operator. After being honorably discharged from the army, he attended Wayne State University where he met the love of his life, Jane, during their freshman year. In 1961 he transferred to Michigan Technological University. He and Jane were married September 7, 1962 and she joined him at Michigan Tech right after the wedding. April 1963, two months before Jim was to graduate in Geological Engineering, Jim was diagnosed with Hodgkins Disease. They immediately moved to Detroit for treatment where Jim was given 10 years to live. In September 1963 he finished his treatment, transferred back to Wayne State and earned a teaching certificate, bachelors and masters degrees and lastly a specialist degree form Michigan State University. Jim taught science for three years at Butcher Jr. High, then spent the rest of his career as a Science Consultant in the Warren Consolidated Schools until he retired in 2000. Jim was always thankful for the long life he lived, the family he and Jane raised and their four granddaughters and one great granddaughter. When their three kids were young, he enjoyed taking the family camping, hiking and fishing and coaching his sons' baseball teams. Jim and Jane continued to travel, attend Detroit sporting events, musicals and plays after the kids were grown. As a lover of nature, Jim spent hours each year tending to his garden and the wildlife it attracted. Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years Jane; son James (Renee); daughter Jennifer Carlson (Brian); granddaughters Jenna, Sydney, Elena, Marisa; great granddaughter Nevaeh. Preceded in death by son Jeffrey; sister Carole. Arrangements are entrusted to Wm. Sullivan & Sons Funeral Home, 8459 Hall Rd, Utica, MI 48317. The family will welcome visitors Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 10am-2pm. Service at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society https://www.lls.org

James "Jim" Edward Scarpace

May 28, 1938 - April 18, 2024