James K. Pope

James "Jim" Kenneth Pope, 92, of Deer Park, TX, formerly of Mt. Clemens, MI, passed away Monday, October 31, 2011. Jim was born in Montreal, Canada in 1919 and was married to Martha J. Pope for 55 years. Together they had 3 children; David Pope of Chicago, IL, Charles Pope of Austin, TX, and Barbara Pope of League City, TX. They have three grandchildren - James, Jacob, and Allison. Jim was a very gentle and loving husband, father, and grandfather. We will miss his witty comments and shrewd observations.

Jim made his living solving problems and inventing things. His first career was the invention and manufacture of the ping pong ball pop gun, which was once featured on the George Burns and Gracie Allen show (http://www.burpgun.com/history.htm). This enterprise allowed him to retire at the age of 27. Family obligations forced him out of retirement at the age of 40 and he worked as an engineer at Ford Motor for 36 years, retiring again at the age of 76.

Jim also had many interests outside of his family and work. He was an avid skier, sailor, and hiker, and was a member of the Detroit News Hiking club for many years. He used his skill for invention to discover new ways to practice his tennis, which he played well into his 80s. He also loved gardening, reading, music, and taking care of the many family pets, including his beloved cocker spaniel BB.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, November 5, 2011, from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Grand View Funeral Home which will be followed by a cremation at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to either the American Lung Association, or any other charity of your choice.

Online memorial tributes may be placed at www.grandviewfunerals.com