James Duane Baum
James Duane Baum, 89, of Charlotte, a generous-hearted man of God, died peacefully on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Jim was born October 29, 1935 in Springport, the son of Daniel and Goldie (Gettys) Baum. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1954 before going to work as a millwright at General Motors. On November 25, 1955, Jim married the love of his life, Delores Fox, and the two happily raised their three sons at home on the farm. Jim loved agricultural life. After a full day’s work at GM, he would come home to a full set of chores and an evening working the farm. Jim could fix anything. On the job as a millwright, he was a talented welder, and at home on the farm he kept everything working properly. He also served his country as a member of the Michigan National Guard. He was a gifted healer, using his homeopathic wizardry to help many people with their ills. Jim was known to help anyone and everyone however they needed it. He was a longtime Elder at the Charlotte Church of Christ, where he shared God’s grace and mercy with everyone he met.
Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Delores; their sons, Gary (Julie) Baum, Dennis, and Steven Baum; grandchildren, Dustin (Kila) Baum, Katie (Michael Middaugh II) Baum, Kelly (Zack) Hartsuff, Danielle (Shaun) Thompson, Michael (Sara) Baum; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his brothers, Francis Laverne Baum and Jack Baum; and his sister, Betty Jane Danku.
Friends are encouraged to support Jim’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2025, with visitation 12-1:00 p.m., at the Charlotte Church of Christ with Rev. John Bailey officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Jim’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Charlotte Church of Christ, Siren Eaton Shelter, or the Eaton Clothing and Furniture Center. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.