Age 68, of Northville, died peacefully on March 15, 2007 in Florida. Beloved husband of Elizabeth (Betty, nee McGowan) for 46 years and dearest father of Elaine, Susan (Tim Weber), and Kathleen (Jerry Philo). Loving "Gampa" of Caitlin (14), Sarah (12), John (12), and Laura (11). Devoted brother of Carol Rennell and Joanne Merrifield and brother-in-law of John Rennell and Tom (Holly) McGowan. Also survived by many dear cousins, nieces, nephews, and treasured friends. Preceded in death by parents Martin & Eleanor Kaiser and brother-in-law Jim Merrifield. Visitation on Wednesday, March 21 at O'Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River (1 mile west of Haggerty) in Novi (248-348-1800) from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. ( www.obriensullivanfuneralhome.com ) Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 22 at Our Lady of Victory in Northville (770 Thayer Blvd.). Interment at Rural Hill Cemetery in Northville. Memorials may be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, 1820 Mt. Elliott St., Detroit, MI 48207 or any charity of choice. www.capuchins.org
Jim graduated from University of Detroit High School in '56 and John Carroll University in Cleveland in '60 with a degree in history. He was president of Kaiser Displays, Inc. in Detroit for over 25 years where he had many loyal co-workers and clients whom he greatly valued and respected. A devout Catholic, he has been an active parishioner at Our Lady of Sorrows, and recently, Our Lady of Victory. Last year he celebrated 40 years of sobriety and over those years he has selflessly helped many others during their own recovery. His kindness, generosity, and peaceful nature touched all who knew him. He lived a life of goodness, integrity and compassion, and his example and spirit will live on in everyone who loved and admired him. He lived one day at a time and was truly grateful for every moment and every simple pleasure. Even after suffering through many serious medical crises the past 13 years, including a number of near-death experiences, he still stayed positive and had a smile and cheerful word for all. Some might say he was "dying" the last few years, but far from it, he has shown what it truly means to LIVE. He cherished family gatherings. He loved a good game of bridge, tunk, or solitaire. He adored leisurely meals and lively conversation with his family and friends. He loved the Adirondack Mountains, Florida, and Niagara Falls. He could make a mean batch of goulash. He was proud and supportive of his children's and grandchildren's endeavors. He appreciated a beautiful sunset and a good laugh. He was gentle, humble, and spiritual. And like the words in his favorite prayer, he had wisdom, courage, and serenity. His six heart attacks, many surgeries, and serious complications from advanced heart disease over the last years have defied all medical odds. What wasn't a mystery, however, is that he had a heart of gold. All the disease in the world could never truly extinguish such a big heart. His life and legacy will continue to live on in every single heartbeat of those who love him. As he is reunited with his dearly departed parents, parents-in-law, relatives and friends, his own heart is now beating strong again for all eternity.