James Francis Carey

Known by his friends simply as Jim was born in 1922 and raised in the Irish Ghetto of Detroit. He was awarded two Purple Hearts during the winter in the Battle of The Bulge of World War II, including one for the loss of his leg defending America. After recovery from his battle injuries he returned home and completed his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the then Lawrence College. From his humble beginnings and war ravaged body he went on to career heights in the Detroit Edison company including becoming a Senior Buyer and Specification Engineer where he contributed to the purchasing and designs of various Power Plants including two of the company's Nuclear Power Plants.

As an avid Sailboat Racer he collected several competition and Regatta trophies. James ensured his children were all proficient in handling a Sailboat and even helped his one son become a successful racer. Maintaining his love for water and boats he would sit with his son for hours by the shoreline watching and telling boating stories up until his last few weeks.

Remaining in service to his country he was active politically and held various publicly elected offices. He also was one of the founding fathers and city civil architects for the city of Troy, Michigan. Due to his foresight, portions of his original design for the city layout remain to this day. His design is traveled over every day by thousands of commuters and travelers when driving along Interstate 75 through the heart of the city.

A loving and supportive Father he is survived by his children: James E., Monica, Maureen, Cheryl and Mark, 8 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He passed peacefully at 94 surrounded by loved ones on November 6, 2016 and was greeted in Heaven by his youngest daughter, Kathryn Mary. Along with his children there are many friends and family that will miss his smile and intellectual conversation.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.palmettofh.com

The family is being served by Palmetto Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

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