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James Glick Obituary
James Robert Glick
ROYAL OAK -- James Robert "Jim" Glick, 85, of Royal Oak and Marilla Township, Mich., passed away on Sept. 10, 2018, in Traverse City, Mich., after a brief illness. His loving family surrounded him.
Jim was born on Dec. 14, 1932, to Lawrence and Amalia (nee Roth) Glick in Saginaw, Mich. He was a graduate of Arthur Hill High School and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in education from Western Michigan University. A Master in Education was earned at Wayne State University. Jim joined the Marines and became a pilot and served four years in active duty and many years in the reserves, retiring as a Major. Flying was one of the loves of his life.
The love of his life, his wife, Rachel Eileen (nee Grossnickle) survives him after 61 years of marriage. Their life-long love affair, both complex and very simple, was truly something to behold.
Jim became a teacher and joined the Royal Oak School District following his graduation from Western. He served the children and families of Royal Oak for 37 years as a teacher, coach, principal and child advocate. In retirement he enjoyed renovating their farmhouse, helping to raise his grandchildren, travel, reading, writing and displaying his unique sense of humor. His kindness, curiosity and generosity knew no bounds and they earned him many admirers.
His parents, Lawrence and Amalia Glick; and his siblings, Dorothy Beckett, Marion Beckett, Lawrence Glick and Jean Howard, preceded Jim in death.
In addition to his wife, his four sons, Robert, David, Douglas and William Glick survive Jim. He leaves his grandchildren, Jason (Susan), Ron (Ashley), Olivia, Connor and Griffin Glick; and his great-grandchildren Weston, Emberlyn, Lucy and Landon Glick. Many nieces, nephews and friends, both human and of the furry kind, survive him as well.
A celebration of Jim's life and legacy will take place on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018. Details will be posted the week prior. Interment of his ashes at the Marilla Township Cemetery will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests you make donations to an educational scholarship fund of your choice.
The Terwilliger Funeral Home, in Kaleva, is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.terwilligerfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Glick
Jorge Beltran
April 29, 2019
Although untimely, I was want his loved ones to know that one meeting in his office did to this first generation Mexican. After some diliberate words for skipping and grades, his words gave me the spirit to acheive a great deal. I served honorably in the Marines, graduated at the very top of all my schools of higher education, including Harvard Law Schood. Ive broken bread with Presidents, traveled the world, and have never given up my desire to teach. I owe him much and will pay it forward. A life well lived that will affect mine for generations to come. He was right in explining to me what I owed the world. Jorge Beltran, Dondero 85; Harvard JD 97.
September 27, 2018
Sorry for your loss, may the god of all comfort be with you through this time.
Tom and Fran Sundquist
September 26, 2018
Admiration means to admire, that's what I feel with my uncle Jim.He was always there when I was growing up and I was aware of his importance to the community, just never knew how much. Fortunately in my last few visits up north I was lucky enough to get to know him as a passionate and loving person he was. We will miss him greatly. Peace be with you. Love Tom and Fran.
Jim Benedict
September 23, 2018
My Family became friends with Jim and Rachel's Family while living in Madison Heights in the 1960's. I will always remember Going to Visit the "Glick's" and always had a good time. So sorry to hear of Jim's passing.
September 23, 2018
Mr. Glick was my English teacher at Kimball. He was a good teacher and a good man.
Gail (Campbell) Schulte
Kay Cornell
September 23, 2018
I worked with Jim in Royal Oak for many years and remember him fondly as a wonderful man and a dedicated, intelligent professional! My deepest condolences to his family!
Sabrina Sexton
September 17, 2018
Sending my deepest condolences to the family.He will be deeply missed .I will always treasure my memories of him.He was the best Husband. Dad and grandfather I ever knew .
Brian Unsworth
September 16, 2018
My prayers are with the Glick family during this difficult time. So sorry for your loss
Robin O'Grady
September 16, 2018
I am saddened to hear this, but comforted by the legacy of both Jim Glick and his surviving wife Rachel Glick. They each have spent their lifetimes helping others by sharing their wisdom, talents and generous spirits. Truly inspiring examples of lives well lived.
Jeff Hagan
September 16, 2018
Our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the Glick family on the passing of Principal Glick. My interactions with him were limited (Dondero '91), but I always thought of him as a firm but fair leader. Good speed and God bless.
Richard Rockwell
September 15, 2018
So sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He supplied the supportive glue that held the Dondero staff together. As our leader, he listened, he laughed with us, and he was a kind, caring educator. The profession could use more like him. My sympathies to his friends, colleagues, and family.
Aimee Kilcher
September 15, 2018
Mr. Glick stood by me in High School after a traumatic injury. He was always encouraging, supportive, kind and humorous. Im so thankful for all that he poured into my life and the lives of our Dondero family. My condolences, prayers for comfort and peace go out to the Glick family. Mr Glick was a man to be admired & celebrated. Thank you Glick family for your sacrifice in time for him to be able to share his life with so man children it made a difference in my life and I thank you. Class of 93
Rosa Tinetti
September 15, 2018
I was fortunate to work with Jim for seven years at Dondero as an assistant principal. I remember him as a kind and caring man with a witty sense of humor who made sure our building ran smoothly. I am so grateful to him for hiring me and giving me the opportunity to be part of such a great school with a wonderful community. He lived our motto "Enter here to learn; go forth to serve."
Robert Stevens
September 14, 2018
On behalf of the Dondero Retired Teachers and Staff Group we send our sympathy and love to the Glick family. Jim was a wonderful principal and a dear friend. For me, he was responsible for my return to teaching after 8 years away. Dondero was a wonderful place to work and a blessing in my life.
Suzanne Lareau
September 14, 2018
I was hired by Jim to teach at Dondero High School In Royal Oak and worked with him for several years before he retired. Jim was kind, thoughtful and a leader who encouraged us to share in the building leadership. In his quiet way he was responsible for the creation of the "Dondero family" a legacy that touched not only the lives of the students but also the entire staff. Gratitude to him and consolation to his family. Suzanne Lareau
Angela Ashburn
September 13, 2018
Jim was my administrator when I first started in Royal Oak. He was a gentle and patient leader and put the students first. Sorry for your loss.
Bertha Vela Arribas
September 13, 2018
My deepest sympathy to Mr. Glicks family. I was blessed to be hired by him on the spot in 1983. He was a wonderful principal and passionate for providing a great education for all students. His dedication to and respect for staff and students was the hallmark of his leadership. He was loved will forever be remembered. May he Rest In Peace.
David and Rachel Myers
September 12, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
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