James F. Scarpone

James F. Scarpone, 69, of Buchanan passed away on Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, at home.

Jim was born on April 27, 1955, to Marino "Gene" and Margaret (Harwood) Scarpone in Detroit. He was the second of seven children. In 1964, his family moved from Detroit to Southfield, Mich., where he graduated from Southfield-Lathrup High School. He attended Hillsdale College where he earned a bachelor's of arts in accounting in 1977, graduating summa cum laude and being awarded Outstanding Senior Man. While at Hillsdale, he met his future wife, Kimberly Sullivan.

After completing his studies, Jim was recruited by several "Big 8" accounting firms, ultimately joining the firm of Coopers and Lybrand in Niles. On Sept. 17, 1977, he married Kimberly Sullivan in Buchanan.

In 1983, Jim founded the independent accounting firm of Scarpone & Co., P.C. in Niles. Over time, the company expanded geographically to St. Joseph as well as expanding its portfolio to include financial and wealth management services under the umbrella of Commonwealth Financial Planners. Throughout his prominent career, Jim took great pride in helping to ensure his clients were successful in their personal and professional endeavors. This personal investment led to valued and lasting relationships with clients, and many became close friends. Jim's professional success led him to serve on the board of several community and nonprofit organizations, including the Huizenga Family Foundation and Niles Downtown Development Authority. Personally, he and his wife Kimberly were strong advocates of quiet philanthropy, supporting various organizations throughout the Michiana community.

Jim was a true son of Detroit. He was a staunch fan of Tiger baseball and the Detroit Red Wings. Jim enjoyed playing in his fantasy "Rotisserie" baseball league, which he often won despite claiming his team "wasn't doing too well." He had a passion for cars, a reflection of his Detroit roots, and as a kid he and his father would walk the car lots checking out the newest models.

His love of hockey led him to coach various Irish Youth Hockey League teams. He was head coach of St. Joseph High School, South Bend, Ind., Varsity Hockey program from 2005-09, leading the team to two state championship appearances during his tenure. Jim also served on the board of governors of the North American Hockey League from 2003-05.

Above all, Jim cherished his family. He always supported his sons in their endeavors, but found his greatest joy in being a grandfather. Grumpa, as he was affectionately known, took great pride in making sure the swimming pool was warm and there were copious amounts of ice cream and gummy bears on hand anytime his grandchildren came to visit.

Jim is survived by his wife of 47 years, Kim; sons: Creighton (Michelle) Scarpone of Overland Park, Kan., Brendan (Janelle) Scarpone of St. Joseph; grandchildren: Elise, Sophia and Ivo; siblings: Jeanne Fritch, John Scarpone, Jerold Scarpone, Joanne (Frank) Duffner and Janet (Dr. John) Robertson and brother-in-law, Charles Aylsworth.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret E. Scarpone; father, Marino "Gene" and Sharon Scarpone; as well as his sister, Jane Aylsworth and brother-in-law, Denny Fritch.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. (EST) on Thursday, Feb. 20, at Swem Chapel, 301 W. Front St., Buchanan, MI. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. (EST) on Friday, Feb. 21, at St. Mark Catholic Church, 3 North 19th St., Niles. A private burial will take place in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Buchanan.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Jim's name can be made to the Edith Alice Sullivan Endowment at Southwestern Michigan College; Building for the Future St. Mark Parish Capital Campaign, Niles, or Samaritan's Purse, Boone, N.C. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.swemchapel.com.