James Patrick Girkin “Jim”, age 69,of Jackson, MI, went home to the Lord on September 19, 2025 at Henry Ford Hospital. Jim was born in Jackson to Ruth and John Girkin on November 9th 1955. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1973. In 1978, he married Cynthia Hamann. Even though they divorced in 1992, they remained friends. He worked as a machinist at Fleming Machine for several years. He enjoyed bowling on leagues, had a large vinyl record collection, enjoyed movies, tending to flower beds and spending time with family. He loved watching all the sports including Detroit Tigers, Lions, Michigan Wolverines, and Detroit Red Wings. He was extremely funny, jovius, down to earth guy that lit up a room with his vibrant personality. Jim was very kind and loving. He loved going to the “coffee shop” at Jackson Coffee Company several times a week. He was a part of AA groups, sub staining soberity for over 15 years. Jim is survived: by his adoring grandson Johnny Girkin of Grand Rapids, Michigan where they would share phone conversations of five hours at a time, daughter Jennifer and husband Trevor Cole of East Lansing, granddaughter Averie whom he fondly nicknamed “Baby Doll”, sister Judith Girkin of Jackson, Robert and wife Polly Girkin of New Hudson, Michigan, John and wife Tonjia Girkin of Jackson, Michigan, nephew Rob and Claire Girkin, and niece Amanda Girkin. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter Rebecca Girkin. There will be a get together to celebrate Jim’s life at Jackson Coffee Company at a later date. The family would like to thank the Jackson AA for their continuation of helping Jim maintain his soberity. Jim will be immensely missed by all those that were blessed to know him. Arrangements with Purse Funeral Home. www.PurseFuneralHome.com
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