James "Jim" Aikin

With great sadness, we share news of the transition of James Russell Aikin, of Charlevoix. Jim passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 88, on June 4, 2025, after a long decline in health. He was born in Detroit, Michigan on November 2, 1936. Jim grew up in Huntington Woods, where he attended Berkeley High School. There he met the love of his life, and future wife of 71 years, Patricia (Patti) Ann Holt.

A proud member of the National Guard, Jim obtained his Bachelor’s of Arts degree at Wayne State University. As he worked his way through corporate settings, particularly General Motors Education and Training, he found his calling as he partnered with his wife Patti, to found and flourish in Training Support Group, Inc. Jim, Patti and their staff provided all non-technical executive training to General Motors Corporation. They were so successful, they were ultimately purchased by General Physics Corp. After their retirement, they chose beautiful Charlevoix as their permanent home.

Jim was a long-time hunter, avid gun collector and skeet shooter. In his earlier years, he was a devoted member of the Detroit Gun Club. Later, his shooting passion was expressed at the Charlevoix Rod and Gun Club. A dedicated member of the Charlevoix Lions Club, Jim was eager to lend a hand. In his beloved Northern home, he cultivated roots and friendships that he deeply cherished. Jim had a rousing time doing so as well.

Jim’s greatest passion, beside his wife, was decoy collecting. With a focus on Michigan based decoys, they built a carefully curated, highly coveted, and historically significant collection. His keen eye for detail and deep appreciation for craftsmanship made his collection a true testament to his love for the art and history of duck decoys. He often shared stories about his most treasured pieces with friends and family, passing on his enthusiasm and knowledge to those around him. His fellow collectors were another true joy in his life.

Jim is survived by his wife Patti, daughter, Alicia Brown, her husband Mark and his adored grandson, Skylar. He is also survived by his brother Robert C. Aikin of Los Alamos, New Mexico, his wife Irene, and their wonderful children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A celebration of Jim’s life is on Monday, June 9, 2025 at Mortensen Funeral Home and Chapel at 209 State Street in downtown Charlevoix. Visitation is from 10 am – 12 pm, with a celebration service at noon. Family, friends and the community are invited to join. For those unable to attend in person, Jim's service will be livestreamed via the following link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2314346202?pwd=UzI1eEFmeHVZaDFPZ1RqUXVSS21zUT09&omn=86759528157

Meeting ID: 231 434 6202

Passcode: hello

He will be interred later that day, at Greenwood Cemetery of Petoskey in a private ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you think of Jim as you donate to your favorite local community charity, such as the Lion’s Club. Jim’s sardonic wit and spirit will be deeply missed.

Local arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com