James Francis Stoddard

James Francis Stoddard, affectionately known to many as Jim, was born on September 1, 1949, in the peaceful town of St. Johns, Michigan, Jim's journey through life was marked by his steadfast love for his family, his country, and the great outdoors. He passed away peacefully, Wednesday, August 27, 2025, in Lansing, Michigan.

Growing up in the Lansing area, Jim was a proud graduate of O'Rafferty High School's Class of 1967. He then ventured forth to further his education at SAM Tech in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Jim returned to Lansing with a vision to serve his hometown. He embarked on a career in retail management that saw him at the helm of various local institutions, including Handy's Market and Gene's Quick Shop. He finished his working career with the State of Michigan Prison System in Jackson, Michigan.

Jim was a man of many interests, each reflecting his profound respect for tradition and his passion for adventure. A lifelong member of the National Rifle Association, he found solace and excitement in the art of shooting. His love for road trips around Michigan was well-known, as he savored the state's diverse landscapes and the freedom of the open road. A consummate hunter, Jim eagerly anticipated the yearly family bear hunting trip in the Upper Peninsula, an event that combined his love for nature with the joy of his family. Despite his quiet demeanor, Jim's wit was as sharp as ever, his one-liners leaving an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of his company. Jim was also an amateur radio operator and loved using and learning about them. He was also loyal Detroit Tigers and Lions fan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Therese (Schneider) Stoddard and a sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn (Jack) Parviainen.

Jim is survived by his siblings, Carol (Stephen) Kutas, Alton "Jerry" (Sally) Stoddard, Janet Wilcox, and Gary (Susan) Johnson; nieces and nephews, Lisa (Vishal) Bhagat, Stephen (Sharon) Kutas, Erik Kutas, Matthew (Natasha) Kutas, Karrie (Jason Husband) Kutas, Amy Parish, Jeffrey (Margaret) Kennedy, Kimberly Parviainen, Megan (Ethan) Murlick, Nathan Johnson, and Jacob (Rebecca) Johnson, his faithful dog, Daisy, and many cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

The funeral liturgy will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel 6301 W. St. Joe Highway, Lansing; with Rev. Fr. Riley O'Shea officiating. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will begin on Wednesday at 12:00 PM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to McLaren Home Hospice in thanks for their amazing care of Jim in his final days.