James Duggan

The giving spirit of James Duggan was clearly evident in the many ways he served his community. A selfless leader and strong activist, he was a likable man whose humor and kindness drew many to his side. Above all, James was a family man who will be fondly remembered and lovingly missed.

Jim's story began in the city of Detroit, Michigan just as winter was making its way towards spring. Prohibition was law, and families gathered around the radio to enjoy the debut of Amos and Andy while the first public demonstration of the television was the subject of conversations everywhere. The Great Depression cast a shadow among all, and these times of hardship found many barely getting by. For James and Alice (Super) Duggan, the days were filled with joy when on March 5, 1930 they celebrated the birth of their son, James Francis Duggan.

Born and raised in the Motor City, Jim's father worked for the Ford Motor Company while his mother remained at home as a homemaker. Jim grew up alongside his two brothers and two sisters, and attended the area schools. Although times were a struggle, Jim enjoyed a typical childhood for the times. From his earliest years, he was a true leader. It was in Jim's nature to take the lead, and he often did. During his youth, he enjoyed times together with his father hunting a time or two which created great memories for him. Devout to their Catholic faith, Jim graduated from Catholic Central High School and went on to attend the University of Detroit.

Jim took on a few jobs here and there, but the key to his heart as a young man was the love he found in the woman with whom he would share the next 33 years of his life. Jim married Beverly Best on July 14, 1951 and together they shared the love of raising their five children, Linda, Kevin, Cheryl, Brian, and Robin.

In 1955, Jim and his family moved to Livonia where they made their home. Even though he was never much of a traveler, he and his family vacationed at Irish Hills, Michigan and Camp Dearborn on several occasions. He also took the kids on a trip to Hell, MI, so the family could say they'd been to Hell. From 1970 to 2009, Jim supported his family as a realtor within his community.

At home, Jim loved tinkering in his garden. He also knew his way around the kitchen. With his love of cooking, he had several delicious specialties which became family favorites. Jim also enjoyed reading at every opportunity. He especially loved war related history books. In fact, it was quite interesting to hear him talk about the history surrounding the city of Detroit and other local areas. He captured the attention of many throughout the years with this knowledge, and absolutely loved every minute of it. It was always a joy to be in Jim's company, especially when he began sharing his uncanny wit and often times, outlandish storytelling. He even joked at times about the history of the Duggan family. Some still wonder if they were true or just one of his stories!

A true servant to his community, Jim believed in giving back, and he did so abundantly. He gave of his time and talents serving as President of the Livonia North Rotary for a time, and was on the board of directors for the Livonia Chamber of Commerce, the Livonia Symphony, and the Livonia Family YMCA. Jim also served as President of the Livonia Irish Society, was Chairman of the Western Wayne-Oakland Association of Realtors PAC, and was a member of the Livonia Youth Advisory Board. He was actively involved with the Livonia Spree Festival and numerous other community affairs. Back in the day, he was also a member of the Monahan Knights of Columbus and Livonia Jaycees.

When graced with the blessing of grandchildren, Jim was in his element. He was ever loving and attentive to them, and took an active role in their lives. His eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren meant everything to Jim. He had a way of treating them as if each one was special to him, because they were.

It was a difficult time for Jim and his family when his wife, Beverly died on April 15, 1985. With the love and support of family and friends, he made it through this trying time. Eventually, Jim found love again in the companionship of Elizabeth Klenow whom he married in 1997. They enjoyed 16 wonderful years together until cancer suddenly took her life in 2009.

Having been a 54 year resident of Livonia, Jim retired from real estate and made a move four years ago to East Tawas. He thoroughly enjoyed his home there and spent the rest of his days simply doing the things he enjoyed in quiet contentment. Jim Duggan loved his family dearly, and his grandchildren were his greatest blessing. Jim will be remembered for all that he gave, for all that he was, and for making those around him smile with ways all his own.

James F. "Jim" Duggan, age 83, died Friday, February 21, 2014. He is survived by his children, Linda (Barry) Stahl, Kevin, Cheryl (John) Stolt, Brian (Laura), and Robin; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Friends may meet with Jim's family on Monday, February 24, 2014 from 2-9 PM at the Turowski Life Story Funeral Home - Livonia west of Middlebelt, 30200 Five Mile Rd., Livonia, MI 48154, (734) 525-9020. Please visit www.TurowskiLifeStory.com to share a favorite memory or photo of Jim and to sign his online guestbook.