James R. Lamkin

James R. Lamkin, age 90, passed away peacefully on Monday night, August 18, 2025 at Bay Shores Nursing Center. The son of the late Arthur and Elizabeth (Crankshaw) Lamkin, he was born on September 7, 1934 in Bay City and has been a resident here since. Jim proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy. He was employed at Saginaw Grey Iron Foundry for 25 years before "retirement", which didn't last long. Jim then went on work as a dealership driver with Graff Chevrolet for 18 years. He had an excellent work ethic and throughout his working years he and his family built several homes, including their own.

Whether it was with his church or in the community, a big part of Jim's life was volunteerism. Along with his wife Sandy, he was an avid volunteer with the United Way of Bay County and was so happy to be recognized as the United Way Volunteer of the Year. Through his work with the United Way, Jim became a team leader with "Tuesday Toolmen", a volunteer program at the Bay County Department on Aging that provides home repairs and accessibility modifications, primarily for seniors, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities. He was a longtime active member of Faith Lutheran Church and enjoyed singing with the Harbor Sounds Barbershop Quartet. Jim enjoyed rollerblading and skiing, and made the most excellent cut out wood puzzles, selling them at local craft shows for many years.

On August 25, 1956 Jim was united in marriage to the former Sandra J. Gang, and she survives his passing after nearly 69 years. He is also survived by two children, Danny (Tina) Lamkin and Cheryl Nielson; six grandchildren, Nicholas (Jessica) Lamkin, Adam (Shannon) Lamkin, Kevin (Heather) Lamkin, Shannon (Tyler) Dietlein, Savannah (Michael) McKinstry and Jordan (Nina) Nielson; 10 great grandchildren, Cecelia, Kylie, Avery, Nolan, Finn, James, Jude, Sonny, Clara and Allison; a brother, Charles Lamkin; a sister, Karen Lamkin; a sister-in-law, Juanita Lamkin; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jim was also preceded in death by a son and daughter-in-law, Rodney (Peggy) Lamkin; a son-in-law, Joseph Nielson; two brothers, Robert Lamkin and Arthur Lamkin; and a sister, Joan Lamkin.

The Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Faith Lutheran Church. The Rev. James Chinery will officiate, and Military Honors will be conducted by the U.S. Navy. Visiting will be at the church on Saturday, August 30th from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. The family suggests donations in Jim's memory to Faith Lutheran Church. Funeral home arrangements are being provided by Trahan Funeral Chapel. Celebrate Jim's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at www.trahanfc.com