JAMES VINCENT DIRKES

age 80, of Grand Rapids, Michigan died December 28th in Naples, Florida. Jim was well known as the founder and CEO of Rapid Engineering, an innovative designer and manufacturer of industrial heating, cooling and process equipment. He was best known to his family, associates and friends as an energetic, compassionate, loving and always positive man. He graduated from the University of Detroit in 1950 with a degree in architectural engineering, served in the US Navy and went on to work for Fisher Body in Detroit and Grand Rapids. He also worked for Glendon A. Richards Co., a roofing and ventilating company in Grand Rapids. He then started his own sheet metal contracting business in 1961. He rapidly assessed that there was a need for a clean, non- pollutive method to provide climate control for large industrial plants and complexes such as Ford Motor Company, the Pontiac Silverdome and many other well-known industrial firms in the United States and abroad. His company, Rapid Engineering Inc., quickly became known as a leader in the twin fields of industrial heating and ventilation and industrial finishing equipment. Jim was also a member of the Grand Rapids Rotary Club. He was an avid golfer, and loved tinkering in his garage or basement making practical devices to make home life easier. He is survived by his wife Josie, his children Jim (Deborah), Sue (Todd Strauch), Jessica and Paula, nine grandchildren and one great grandchild, his sisters Margaret, Joan Vismara, and brothers-in-law John Vismara and Eugene Lomas. James was preceded in death by his sister Frances Lomas. A funeral Mass celebrated in honor of his life will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 2510 Richmond Dr., Grand Rapids, MI, 49504 on January 6 at 11 a.m. A luncheon will be held immediately following. Gifts and donations can be made to the St. Anthony Educational Fund in memory of him.