

James was born on August 5, 1944, in Denver, Colorado, to Alvin Salomonson and Jean Munn. He was the devoted husband of the late Claire Salomonson, with whom he shared 54 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a loving family, and he was a proud and dedicated father to Donna, Sean, James, and Michael.
James proudly served his country in the United States Army before beginning a long and successful career with Ford Motor Company, where he retired after many years of service. He enjoyed classic cars, boxing, and was a big University of Michigan football fan. Above all else, James's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose strength, wisdom, and unwavering support helped shape the lives of those he loved. His guidance, generosity, and quiet determination left a lasting impact on his family and all who knew him.
James is survived by his loving children: Donna (Harry) Karapetian, Sean (Judy) Salomonson, James (Cyrena) Salomonson, and Michael (Denise) Salomonson. He was a proud grandfather to Anthony (Kayleigh), Ashley, Melissa (Adam), Joshua, Michael, Stone, Jett, Malachi, Mia, and Nathan (Kara), and a cherished great-grandfather to Iyla, Asher, Colter, and Callahan.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Claire Salomonson; his parents, Alvin Salomonson and Jean Munn; his brothers, Michael and David Salomonson; and his sisters, Tanya Greene and Renee Salomonson.
Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 11:00 am until the time of the memorial service at 2:00 p.m at Muehlig Funeral Chapel, 403 S. Fourth Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in James's honor.
James will be remembered for his kindness, strength, generosity, unwavering love for his family, and the quiet example he set throughout his life. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the values he instilled in them. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
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