James Harold Gilpin
James Harold “Jim” Gilpin of Eaton Rapids, passed away peacefully in his home January 8, 2025, at the age of 88. Jim was born on August 8, 1936. He was the seventh child of 11 born to Edna and Harold Gilpin. After graduating from Resurrection School in Lansing, Jim met the love of his life, Sheila Gooch. After a whirlwind romance, they were married on February 15, 1958. The two moved into their first home together in Potterville, MI, and in no time, they welcomed their first child, Toni Marie. Jim worked a few odd jobs during this time, saving for a bigger home. They welcomed their son, Troy, in 1962. In a few short years, the family moved into their home on Dexter in Eaton Rapids. Jim started his 43-year long career working at Eaton Stamping. During this time, he and Sheila began making plans for their forever home. After years of planning, saving, designing and building their dream was complete. Jim and Sheila moved into their home at the beginning of 1980. It was in this home they welcomed four grandchildren-Jessica Seguin, Meagan (Gilpin) McLouth, Nikolas Matthews and Kelsey (Matthews) Trosper. 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.
Jim was known for his love of golf, his dedication to his yard and his ability to fix just about anything. But, for those of us who knew him best know he was so much more. He was a friend to talk to, a teacher, a man who tried to be tough and grumpy but always had his heart on his sleeve. He loved spending time with his grand kids and great grands. He could be found on the floor, playing with toys or being the family horse. Each child had their own unique memories with him but the one thing they all had in common was when they saw him, they would all visibly relax and would say “Pa” in the most calm and relaxed voice, as though they had just come from a day at the spa. He was their comfort, and they knew it.
Although we will all miss him dearly, we know he is finally at peace, away from pain and returned to his love, Sheila. They are taking care of their home, bantering back and forth, and watching over their family as they have always done, together.
Jim will be reunited with his wife, Sheila; his parents, Edna and Harold Gilpin; siblings, Ruth, Donna, Margaret, Mary, Leo, Bernard and Lowell. He is survived by his daughter, Toni (Gilpin) Matthews and son, Troy Gilpin; grandchildren, Jessica Seguin, Meagan (Gilpin) McLouth and her husband Randy, Nikolas Matthews, Kelsey (Matthews) Trosper and her husband Brandon; 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson; siblings, Mike Gilpin, Lois (Gilpin) Balog, Janet (Gilpin) Cousineau plus countless nieces and nephews as well as friends.
Services will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. Visitation will take place one hour before the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to the Craig Cartwright Memorial Fund, 2331 Country Club Way, Albion, MI 49224. A luncheon will be served afterwards at Robbins United Methodist Church, 6419 Bunker Road, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.