James Frank Mullet

James “Jim” Frank Mullet was born on August 1, 1941, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to Edward E. Mullet Sr. and Marion Mullet. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Friday, October 23, 2026. He lived a full and adventurous life, built a successful career, traveled the world, and cherished the family and friendships that meant so much to him. Above all, Jim built a legacy that will carry on for generations.

Jim attended Michigan State University, graduating in 1964, where he met the love of his life, Kathleen Mary Kiel. On January 9, 1965, they were married and began a journey together that spanned more than six decades. Their life was filled with love, laughter, family, and adventure, with Kathy remaining his devoted partner through life’s many journeys.

Jim was a proud father to Sally, Pam, and Brad. His family was at the center of his life, and he took great pride in watching his children and grandchildren grow. He deeply valued time spent with family and friends, always appreciating the memories made and the connections built along the way.

Jim was outgoing, confident, and never afraid to strike up a conversation with someone new. He believed life was an adventure and often reminded those around him, “It’s a jungle out there.” Whether meeting new people, exploring unfamiliar places, or sharing stories with old friends, Jim approached life with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a genuine interest in others.

A Distinguished Career

Jim graduated from Michigan State University in 1964 with a degree in Business Administration. He went on to build a successful 27-year career as an IBM salesman. Beginning in Jackson, Michigan, he sold copiers and typewriters before transitioning into computers and computer-aided design workstations. One of his primary accounts was Oldsmobile, part of General Motors.

His dedication, determination, and sales accomplishments earned him membership in IBM’s prestigious 100% Club and Golden Circle. Jim took great pride in his work and demonstrated the professionalism and people skills that contributed to his success throughout his career.

A Life of Adventure and Travel

Jim and Kathy shared a love of travel and explored destinations throughout the United States and around the world. Their adventures included special family vacations throughout Scandinavia and Russia, as well as a family cruise to Alaska. They also enjoyed visiting Hilton Head, Florida, California, Maine, Massachusetts, Arizona, and national parks across the country, including Utah. One particularly special trip was their celebration of their 25th wedding anniversary in Hawaii. They also visited Paris, France.

Their travels also included memorable garden tours and visits to some of the world’s most beautiful gardens. These included an English garden tour, the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands, and the beautiful Butchart Gardens in British Columbia. Jim appreciated the beauty of nature and enjoyed discovering the remarkable gardens and landscapes they encountered along the way.

Although Jim traveled far and wide, he never forgot his Massachusetts roots. He cherished his family connections there and made a point of returning to visit family, keeping those relationships close throughout his life.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula also held a special place in Jim’s heart. One of his most cherished accomplishments was building a family cottage in Manistique, Michigan, on the shores of Lake Michigan. The Mullet Cottage became a treasured gathering place where family and friends could enjoy the beauty of the lake, share stories, laugh together, and create memories that would last a lifetime.

After retiring, Jim and Kathy spent their winters in Arizona for the past 24 years, continuing their adventures and enjoying new experiences. Jim also enjoyed flower shows, appreciated the beauty of nature, and loved discovering new places wherever life took him.

A Lifelong Sportsman and Spartan

An avid hunter and fisherman, Jim enjoyed the outdoors and the traditions and camaraderie that came with both pursuits. He was equally enthusiastic about sports and attended hockey, football, and basketball games whenever he had the opportunity.

Jim’s pride in Michigan State University remained strong throughout his life. One particularly memorable experience was attending the 2014 Rose Bowl with Kathy, his brother-in-law George, and his sister-in-law Sue Graeber, when Michigan State defeated Stanford. It was a special occasion that brought together two of his greatest loves: family and his beloved Spartans.

A Legacy of Family and Friendship

Jim will be remembered for his strong work ethic, adventurous spirit, generosity, warmth, humor, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He believed in working hard, enjoying life, helping others, and making time for the people who mattered most.

His legacy cannot be measured solely by his professional accomplishments or the places he traveled. It is reflected in the family he raised, the friendships he nurtured, the generosity he shared, and the memories he leaves behind. The Mullet Cottage on Lake Michigan, family gatherings, stories from his travels, and countless moments spent together will continue to connect generations of the family he loved so dearly.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Kathleen “Kathy” Mullet; his daughter, Pam (Hamdi) Alaaldin, and grandchildren Mina and Alan; his son, Brad (Lisa) Mullet, and grandchildren Garnet and Harper; and his sister, Alethia Urquhart.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sally Mullet; his parents, Edward E. Mullet Sr. and Marion Mullet; his brother, Ned Mullet; and his sister, Phyllis Bergstrom.

Jim built a life filled with adventure, success, laughter, generosity, and love. His journey took him around the world, but his heart always belonged to his family. He leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the lives he touched, the stories that will continue to be told, and the generations who will gather together, just as he loved them to do.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In honor of Jim, the family encourages others to donate blood.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎