James William Kosakowski

James William Kosakowski, age 71 of St. Clair Shores, died Monday, November 16, 2020 at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. He was born May 20, 1949 in Highland Park, Michigan, son of the late William and the late Irene (nee: Legowicz) Kosakowski.

Jim grew up in Detroit and attended Cass Technical High School; Wayne State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering; and the University of Detroit Mercy where he earned his Master's Degree in Business Administration. He worked as a mechanical engineer in the automotive industry and retired from General Motors. 

Jim was married to the love of his life, Darlene, for 43 years. Together, they lived in St. Clair Shores and raised two daughters, Kelly (Drew Thaler) and Jaclyn (Jon Casper). He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Maximilian, Harrison and Charlotte. Dear brother-in-law of Sister Margaret Ann Murawski Jim and Darlene were also parishioners of St. Joan of Arc Parish in St. Clair Shores.

Jim loved to travel, especially on cruises. He also enjoyed golfing, fishing, and being outdoors. Camping was a big part of his life, as he traveled to nearly every national park in the United States.  He loved traveling in Michigan, especially to state parks and the Great Lakes. He was a lover of animals, especially his cat “Kitty”. Most importantly, Jim loved spending time with his family and being a papa and grandpa to his three grandkids. 

Jim will be remembered for being a generous, loving, caring, and hardworking man. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally by all who knew him. 

James was the beloved husband of Darlene. Loving father of Kelly (Andrew) Kosakowski-Thaler and Jaclyn (Jonathan) Casper. Cherished grandfather of Maximilian, Harrison, and Charlotte.

A Memorial Mass for James will be held June 5th with a gathering time at 9:45am until the time of the Mass at 10:00am at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 22412 Overlake St, St Clair Shores, MI 48080. St. Joan of Arc will be live streaming the service at www.sjascs.org .  Inurnment to take place at Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton Township.

Memorial donations in James' name are appreciated to either St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Leader Dogs for the Blind.

Please share memories of James at his guest book below.