James Richard Waddington

After graduating from Redford Union High School, Jim began his professional journey at Ford Motor Company, where he initially worked as a journeyman. Over the years, his dedication and expertise led him to advance into the role of Engineering Supervisor. Jim devoted 35 years of service to Ford, culminating in his distinguished career with his retirement from Ford’s Livonia Transmission Plant.

Jim was a generous philanthropist who devoted his time and energy to local churches and soup kitchens, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He had a deep love for Detroit sports, especially the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers. An avid golfer, he also found joy in life’s simple pleasures like canning tomatoes (a hobby everyone knew him for), watching wildlife from his back deck, and spending time in nature.

Jim had a special love for animals and was a proud pet parent to his three beloved fur babies: Bella, Boss, and Queenie.

To cherish his memory, Jim leaves behind his devoted wife of 28 years, Shirley; his sister, Joanne Kruse; his daughter, Heather Trevarrow (Paul); his niece-daughter, Stacey Smolinski, and nephew-son, Ken Smolinski; his stepchildren, Paul Tokarski (Ann), Curtis Walker, and Catherine Ingle (Gregory); his grandchildren, Lane Trevarrow, Stephanie Anderson (Dale), Erica Wolfenbarger (James), Michael Tokarski (Ela), Curtis Barber (Jared), and Taryn Walker; and his great-grandchildren, Andy Anderson, Jolene and Jude Wolfenbarger, and Mason and Stormy Barber. He is also lovingly remembered by his many dear nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, David Waddington and brother-in-law Clarence Kruse.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s honor may be made to Michigan Humane.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Harry J Will Funeral Home.

A funeral service will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with in-state visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m., also at the funeral home.