James Barry Menacher

James "Jim" Barry Menacher, age 93, went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents Louis and Mary (Barry) Menacher; siblings Mary Porter, Patricia Anderson, and William Menacher; step-son, Eric Gillette; and brothers-in-law Gordon Wright, Richard Wright, and Harold Wright. He will be remembered by his lovely wife of 39 years, Shirley (Wright) Menacher; sisters-in-law Lynda Wright and Sharon Robinson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

After high school, Jim started college at Wayne State University, however, his education was interrupted when he was drafted into the Army and stationed at Fort Sill, OK. After his discharge in 1955, he returned to Wayne State University to complete his degree and graduated in 1957. Jim worked 31 and a half years as a sales representative for Commerce Clearing House (a tax and business law publisher), which he enjoyed. Jim’s passion was golf. He was a scratch golfer in his younger years; he became the golf coach at Aquinas College for two years back in the 1970s, and he continued playing until he was 89 years young. He always said, "I have my CCH books and my clubs in the trunk, just in case I have to work."

Music was a big part of Jim's life; he was an accomplished vocalist and enjoyed being a season ticket holder for the Grand Rapids Symphony concerts. He loved people and always acknowledged a person, whether it was a company’s president or a store’s clerk, with a “Hope you are having a good day,” a compliment, or just a friendly hello. Jim will be missed by so many, as he always had a joke or a story to tell you; he could keep you laughing for hours.

There will be a private burial ceremony with immediate family only at a later date.

The family would like to thank the University of Michigan Health-West doctors and ICU unit teams for taking such great care of Jim, and a special thank you to Jim’s caregiver Lady Afreeka for her smile and warmth.

In honor of Jim and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of James Menacher to the Disabled American Veterans (help.dav.org). The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guestbook online.