James "Jim" Goodwin Anspach

James was born December 31, 1940 in Flint, Michigan and died on November 12, 2020, in Bayfront Health – Seven Rivers in Crystal River, Florida. Jim is survived by his loving wife and soul mate, Paula. Also, left to grieve his passing are his brother Raymond (Carole) of Trenton, Michigan, brothers-in-law Fred McCaskill (Faye) of Davison, Michigan, David Rossetter (Maria) of Florida and Charles Carmer (Linda) of Clio, Michigan. He is also survived by his loving step daughters Christine Kroes and Lori Schmidt, 8 step grandchildren, 8 step great-grandchildren, and a half-sister, Anita Gunn of Chesaning, Michigan. Jim also has 7 nieces and nephews, many cousins and friends who will miss him. Jim was predeceased by his first wife LouDel, daughter Malain, parents Clifford and Elizabeth Anspach, sisters Donna Carmer and Suzanne Rossetter, step son Andrew Scott Hamann, 1 step great granddaughter and 1 niece.

James graduated from Beecher High School in Mt. Morris Township, Michigan in 1959. He apprenticed at General Motors Grand Blanc Fisher Body which required he complete a 4 year program of course work at Mott Community College. Jim completed the program in 1963 and earned a journeyman position as a tool maker. He was later employed at the Chevrolet Truck Plant in Flint, Michigan as a toolmaker, where he was promoted to the position of Supervisor from which he retired on July 1, 1992.

Jim had a passion for law enforcement and upholding the law. He attended Michigan State Law Enforcement Officers Training and became a member of the Atlas Township Police Department, where he served for 17 years, retiring as the Chief of Police.

Jim’s strong work ethic began at an early age. When he was 10 years old he had a paper route delivering The Detroit Free Press. He then took a paper route for the Flint Journal. This is the legacy he wanted to pass on to his grandchildren, to have good work ethics, honesty in what you do, pride in your work and being respectful. He also wanted to pass on as his legacy love of country, flag, and freedom. These feelings led him to always being ready to discuss his views on politics.

Jim was a family man. He was a very dedicated and supportive husband of his wife Paula. If he was not golfing or working in his yard he could be found along side of his wife. His grandchildren were a source of enjoyment for him. He especially liked teaching them how to work with wood, swim, and to shoot firearms safely.

Jim enjoyed hunting and fishing. He started as a young man hunting pheasants and ducks. He continued with this interest hunting deer and bear in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This was a passion he shared with his step granddaughter and her husband, Skylar and Chapin Lamont. He was a lifelong member of the NRA.

 After he stopped hunting,  Jim’s love of nature continued with improving his large yard.  He daily filled several bird feeders there, getting great joy watching the wildlife that came to feed.  Jim’s beloved dog, Rollie, and conure parrot, Such A Deal, completed his love of animals.

Jim began golfing when he was in his 50’s. After moving to Florida he became a serious golfer, playing on several leagues, as many as 4 times a week. He enjoyed playing at courses in Citrus and Lake Counties in Florida. He became a winning golfer and had 3 holes in one. One hole in one shot was at 7 Rivers Golf Club in Crystal River, Florida.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s honor can be made to the American Cancer Society or an animal shelter of your choice.