James L. Boobyer

James “Jim” Boobyer of Jackson, Michigan, passed away on July 25, 2025, at the age of 81. He died surrounded by family, likely annoyed by all of the talking instead of the TV playing loudly.

Born on April 25, 1944, Jim was one of eight children to Leonard and Esther Boobyer, which explains his lifelong ability to perfect the art of sarcasm and survival. He is survived by his three children—Melissa, Jamie, and Mark Boobyer—who are still trying to figure out how to live up to his legacy of stubbornness and suspiciously accurate hunting stories.

He also leaves behind three grandkids—Reed Alexander, Emrick Boobyer, and Fynn Boobyer—who will miss his colorful commentary, his complete disregard for filters, and his belief that “back in my day” was a valid argument for everything.

Jim is survived by his brothers Jerry and Leonard (Jeep) Boobyer (Lynn), and a whole bunch of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sisters Nancy Dubois, Barb Sayles, Jackie Fillmore, and Kate Riker, and his brother John Boobyer (Cloanne)—a group that probably greeted him with a stinger and a "what took you so long".

Jim owned and operated Leonard Machine for 45 years, which means he spent nearly half a century pretending to retire. Even at 81, he went to work every day—mostly to supervise and scratch lottery tickets. He was an avid hunter, a supporter of the Special Olympics, and a golfer until he realized that club-throwing wasn’t going to improve his score.

He lived life on his own terms, which included redefining the age at which you earn the right to say whatever you want. We used to think that milestone came at 90, but Jim made a compelling case for 80. He was a man of strong opinions and a heart that—despite his best efforts—was actually pretty damn big.

Per his request, cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held at Roseland Memorial Gardens, 3744 Brooklyn Road, Jackson, on August  5, 2025 at 11:00 am followed by a celebration of life at Heritage Park - 121 Tefft Street, Hanover, Michigan, beginning at 12:30pm, where we’ll share stories, laugh too loud, and probably say a few things he would’ve found “completely inappropriate—but accurate.”

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society in his name or to Feeding America in the name of Carson Duffield and Jim Boobyer

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