James Herbert Vanderpool

VANDERPOOL, James Herbert “Jim”, of Flushing, a proud United States Army Corps of Engineers Veteran, passed away peacefully January 22, 2025, at the age of 90. 

His life will be celebrated Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 1 P.M at the Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 W Hill Rd, Flint, with visitation beforehand from 11 A.M. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Pastor John Gildner officiating.

A memorial committal service will be held at a later date at Great Lakes National Cemetery for Military Veterans in Holly, Michigan.

He was born April 23, 1934 in Springfield, Ohio. James grew up in Flint, Michigan, graduating from Flint Technical High School before enlisting in the Army and serving overseas in the Korean War. James was stationed in Thailand, Japan, and the Philippines. After the war, he spent additional time in the Korean Demilitarized Zone as a guard. As a result of his valued service, he received many honors and medals. James spent most of his life in Flushing, Michigan, after marrying the love of his life, Jeanie Vanderpool, on August 23, 1958. Together they shared two beautiful daughters, Julie and Janette. James was a skilled tradesman at General Motors for over 40 years. He loved spending time with church friends, playing cards, and sharing stories about his time in the Army. He was known as a volunteer around Flint through many channels, including the Flint Institute of Music, Crim Festival of Races, and his church. He served as an usher for many years and would often pick up dozens of donuts for churchgoers before service. Jim had quite a sweet tooth, and his famous brownies and cookies could win baking competitions. He was an avid racewalker, winning hundreds of first place medals and trophies in his age group. 

James is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Jeanie Vanderpool, his daughters, Julie (Robert) Cookingham and Janette Vanderpool, grandchildren Rob (Elizabeth) Cookingham, Megan Altenritter, Samantha (Jason) Beste and Joleen (Matthew) Racette, six great grandchildren, and his sister Linda (John) Dimmick. James was preceded in death by his mother, Cora Bernethay, sisters Eloise and Rosie, and grandson Dr. Matthew Altenritter.