James Paul Spoolstra

Jim was born on April 27, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois, to Albert and Aletha Spoolstra. He was a man of remarkable dedication, strength, and love whose life was defined by his devotion to family, strong work ethic, and commitment to the people and things he valued most.

Above all else, Jim was a devoted family man. His family was the center of his life, and he took tremendous pride in being a loving husband, father, and grandfather, roles he embraced wholeheartedly and at which he truly excelled. Meticulous, organized, and goal oriented, Jim approached life with purpose and intention. He was dependable, deeply invested in the lives and futures of those he loved, and always wanted the very best for them. He showed his love through his actions by providing, supporting, encouraging, teaching, and being a steady presence. His family was, without question, his greatest source of pride.

Jim was a lifelong athlete and avid sports fan. In his youth, he competitively played baseball, hockey, and golf and also enjoyed tennis and skiing. His love of sports continued throughout his life, whether he was playing, coaching, or cheering on his favorite teams: the Chicago Bulls, Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Blackhawks, and, of course, Notre Dame.

As an adult, Jim played in softball leagues and participated in work golf outings. Some of his most meaningful experiences came from coaching his sons, Bradley and Trenton, in basketball and baseball for multiple seasons. Jim believed strongly in the importance of fundamentals, both in sports and in life, and often reminded others, “Your talents will only take you so far.” It was a lesson that reflected the way he lived, with discipline, perseverance, and a belief in the value of hard work.

Jim began his career in the furniture and bedding industry in the early 1970’s and quickly proved himself to be a gifted salesman. His career spanned more than five decades, during which he built lasting relationships and earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike. He retired earlier this year from Michiana Mattress/Elkhart Bedding after 25 years of dedicated service.

Outside of work and family, Jim enjoyed golfing and had a keen interest in researching stocks and following his investments. Whether studying the market, spending time on the golf course, watching a favorite team, or simply being with those he loved, Jim brought focus and enthusiasm to the things that mattered to him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Aletha Spoolstra; his sister, Sharon; and his brother-in-law, Paul.

He is survived by his loving wife, Gail Dodge; his daughter, Christina Harper; his sons, Bradley Spoolstra and his wife, Sara, and Trenton Spoolstra and his fiancée, Lisa Rothberg; Lisa’s daughter, Peyton Aquino; his beloved granddaughters, Willa and Emerald; his brothers, Bill and Skip; and his sister, Karen. He is also lovingly remembered by Davaughn Harper, with whom Jim shared a close and lasting bond, as well as extended family members, dear friends, former colleagues, and many others whose lives were touched by his love, strength, and generosity.

Jim will be remembered for the life he built, the lessons he shared, and the unwavering love he gave his family. His absence will be deeply felt, but his values, wisdom, and the memories he created will live on in those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, July 12 from 2-4pm at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery followed by a private family funeral on Monday, July 13.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the floral arrangements lovingly provided by the Stablein and Shuchart families.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Jim’s memory to contribute to the college fund of his granddaughter, Emerald, whose education and future were especially important to him. Contributions can be made by using the following link: https://gofund.me/7e07e8b5f

A live stream of the service will be available with here: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c26073279381334.