James R Trotter

James Richard Trotter, Age 88, of Kalamazoo, passed away on April 7, 2026 at Alamo Cove Nursing Home surrounded by his children after battling Alzheimer’s Disease.

Jim was the oldest child, born on April 3, 1938 in Jackson, Michigan to John E. and Regina (McCabe) Trotter.

He attended Jackson High School before joining the United States Navy from April 12, 1955 through March 20, 1959 where he served on the USS Lexington (CVA-16) He deployed to Japan during his time in the service which spurred his interest in Japanese culture.  He and his family welcomed Japanese exchange students into their home and would often take groups of Japanese students blueberry picking during the summers.

Jim married Nancy (Blanchard) from 1969-1992 and they shared three children together.  Michael was the first born, Marc was born in 1972 and Cathy completed their family when she was born in 1974.  In 1994, he married Mary (Telfer) Baker and they divorced in 2005. 

Jim spent his early career in transportation before transitioning to sales.  After retiring, he worked part-time with Watson Funeral Chapel where he enjoyed helping people and bringing smiles to the staff. He was a true asset to the team at Watson Funeral Chapel and will be missed greatly. 

In his free time, he enjoyed archery, which he learned from his dad.  He enjoyed fishing as well, and shared his love of fishing with his sons. Jim also taught his kids about helping others by volunteering with them to collect money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Labor Day Telethon.  What started as a small amount the first year turned into $5,000 in their most successful year which was a lot in the 1980’s! Jim also served with the Knights of Columbus for many years and was a long-time member of St Mary’s Star of the Sea in Jackson, and St. Monica’s Parish in Kalamazoo, MI. 

He is survived by his children, Michael Trotter; Marc (Paula DeLaCruz) Trotter; Cathy (Nick Scott) Trotter of Allendale, MI.; and his grandchildren, Emma (Stephen Belles) Hankey of Winter Park, FL., Madison Hankey of Aubrey, Tx., and Ashley DeLaCruz of Marrero, LA. 

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, John David Trotter, and his sister, Judy King, as well as his second wife, Mary Baker.

Visitation will be held on May 2, 2026 from 9:00am until the time of service at 10:00am at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church – 120 East Wesley Street, Jackson, MI.  with Father Tim Nelson, presiding.  There will be a presentation from the American Legion to honor him following the Mass. Inurnment will take place following at Woodland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his honor can be made to: St. Vincent DePaul of Jackson or Kalamazoo, MI.

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