James Stimpson

James “Jim” Robert Stimpson passed away at the age of 90 on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at his home in Alden, Michigan. He went peacefully that morning, comforted by familiar voices. Jim spent his final moments surrounded by love.

Jim was born on July 30, 1935 to his parents, Vera and Barrett Stimpson, at the end of the depression. He was raised in rural Ann Arbor, where he enjoyed his youth filled with outdoor pastimes. He also learned resourceful skills to build things with his hands. Jim attended General Motors Institute in Flint and graduated in 1958. He was a dedicated Engineer at the Chevrolet Tech Center for 38 years. During those years, Jim most enjoyed the high-speed test track driving and his time with the Corvette group.

The same year he graduated GMI, Jim met his wife, Mary Ann Hayosh, at a dance club. They would go on to be married almost 67 years. After being married a short time they bought a home in newly developed Shelby Township. Where they raised their four children for 34 years. Ronald Stimpson, Denise Hopkins (James), Jeanette Jordan (Richard), Thomas Stimpson (Julie). Nine grandchildren include: Sarah, Vincent, Taylor, Elizabeth, Evan, Jack, Kendall, Shelby, and Luke along with four great granddaughters Ilia, Marcella, Ellie, and Natalie. There are also many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and longtime friends. Passing before Jim are his sister, Beverly, and brothers, Jerry and Bill.

In 1991, Jim retired and he started to design and build their forever home, which Jim declared he would build himself. While it took 8 years to complete, he hammered every nail and cut every board. Over the years he maintained the home and always enjoyed working on new projects. Jim and Mary Ann were avid travelers with their 1975 Airstream trailer. They traveled tens of thousands of miles in it. They traveled to many Airstream rallies and made great friends along the way. Beginning in 2001, they switched to the Great Lakes where they cruised on “Jimary” their Nordic Tug Trawler for seven summers. One season, they went through the U.S. and Canadian canal systems, where they experienced 186 different locks. The memories of both Shelby Township and those at Torch Lake are treasured. The family thanks the Lord for being with them daily. Jim's wife, Mary Ann, survives him.

The support of family and friends has been instrumental in recent months. Anyone wishing to make a donation in Jim’s memory is welcome to do so for any organization of their choosing or Munson Hospice Care.

A day of remembrance is being planned for Jim. Burial will take place at Helena Township Cemetery. Dr. Robert Gilbert will officiate.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

Please sign his online guestbook below.