James "Jim" Austin

James “Jim” Austin, age 80, of Canton, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025. Beloved husband of Arlene (née Rimarcik) for 57 years. Jim and Arlene were married on June 8, 1968, in Detroit and built a life rich with love, laughter, and family. Loving father to Pam Austin, Katie (Tony) Bahu, and Kelly (John) Doyle. Proud and devoted Papa to Emily Bahu, Alexa Bahu, Connor Doyle, Austin Doyle, and Johnny Bahu. He is also survived by his dear sister, Gerry (Kenny) Sulewski, and many cherished relatives and friends. Born on May 8, 1945, in Highland Park, Michigan, to the late Cliff and Mary (née Kaseta) Austin, Jim grew up with a deep appreciation for music, sports and family. He graduated from St. Andrew High School in 1963, where he played both basketball and baseball. He carried his love for classic doo-wop music and dancing throughout his life. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Jim served in Vietnam, attaining the rank of Specialist 5. He was awarded the Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal with a bronze service star, a testament to his courage and commitment to his country. Jim dedicated 29 years to Ford Motor Company, working in IT Operations before retiring in January 1996. Retirement didn’t slow him down--he spent another decade serving the Plymouth-Canton School District as a beloved crossing guard, where he became a familiar and friendly face to students and families. A longtime parishioner of St. Thomas a’Becket Catholic Church, Jim found strength in his faith and community. He was a proud member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and lived a full life marked by service, integrity and joy. Jim had a zest for life and a knack for fun. He enjoyed boating, water skiing, camping and snowbird travels with Arlene. Whether he was playing washers and horseshoes, coaching softball, cruising in a classic car or bowling, he approached every pastime with his signature enthusiasm. Known as a perfectionist, Jim was also known for his warmth, humor and signature phrases: “Peace, love & happiness,” “No fighting,” and the ever-curious, “Is it fresh?” Visitation will take place Monday, July 28, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, 46401 Ann Arbor Road West, Plymouth. A Rosary service will begin at 6:30 PM, followed by time for family sharing. Jim will lie in state on Tuesday, July 29, from 10:00 AM until the Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM at St. Thomas a’Becket Catholic Church, 555 South Lilley Road, Canton. Jim’s cremated remains will then be laid to rest with Army Military Honors at Great Lakes National Cemetery on Thursday, July 31, at 2:30 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. To share a memory or message with the family, please visit the “Share a Memory” tab on this page.

James "Jim" Austin

May 8, 1945 - July 23, 2025