James Jim Barnard

James (Jim) Barnard, 75 of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away Friday, June 11, 2021, surrounded by family. Jim was born October 10, 1945, to Don (Merton) Barnard and Marjorie Ann (Loftus) Barnard in Detroit, Michigan. Jim was known for his sense of humor and strong work ethic. He worked hard and played even harder. He had a passion for golf and motorsports including boats, bikes, and cars. He loved golfing, boating, or cruising around Traverse City with his children, grandchildren, and dogs; Mozart, Molly, and Buddy. He adored his dogs and, in recent years, would rarely go anywhere without them. Jim was a loving and generous man who lived his life to the fullest. Jim co-founded Design Systems, Inc. (DSI), and took great pride in the success of the company but more importantly the success of each team member. To Jim, each person at DSI was more than an employee, they were a family that counted on DSI for their livelihood. This approach drove Jim to build the business into a sustainable and well-respected company. Jim retired from DSI in 2001. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Don, his mother, Marjorie, his step-father, Thomas, his step-mother, Eleanor, his sister, Debbie, and Brother-in-law, Richard. He is survived by his sisters; Jane, and Cathy (Steve), his children; Shelly (Keith), Heather (Dave), Sara (Jake), Mike (Lori), and step-daughter, Devin (Charles), and his grandchildren; Morgan, Joe, William, Anna, Paige, Chloe, and Charlie. People wishing to honor Jim's memory and love for dogs can make a donation to the ASPCA. https://secure.aspca.org/team/JimB-s-fundraiser-event