James "Jim" E. Rumbach

James “Jim” E. Rumbach, 90, of Traverse City, Michigan passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, with his family by his side. Jim was born in Traverse City on October 31, 1935, he grew up running the streets of T.C. and helping at his family’s farm in Leelanau County. Jim went on to serve two years in the Army, drive a tow truck, and work the meat department at Union Market, before he found his calling as a plumber. He apprenticed with Walters and Hemming and after several years started working at the State Hospital. He worked there until their closure in 1990, when he retired at the ripe age of 56 and became a permanent school field trip chaperone for his three grandchildren. Jim was heavily involved in chaperoning the church youth choir at Bethlehem Lutheran with his wife Kay and two children, Pamm and Todd in the 70’s. Traveling around the Midwest and Canada corralling the troupe for their performances. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, especially his guy’s trips to Canada. He loved getting out on the lake early in the morning when the fishing was “just right”. Jim and Kay spent their summers at Lake Leelanau R.V. Park, where they had a permanent spot for their camper. Creating a community with the other seasonal residents and making new friends with all the transient campers. Their lot was on the main corner, and he always had a fire going, making it the place to be. If you walked by, Jim never hesitated to start a conversation. He loved to tease and joke, calling every woman his new “girlfriend” and every child his adopted grandchild. After leaving the R.V. park, Jim spent time volunteering at Inland Seas and Bethlehem Lutheran Church. He started getting into woodworking and building furniture. He enjoyed working out in his garage and putzing around his yard. He was the guy who was always available, would drop everything and help someone out. Especially being a chauffeur to his grandchildren. Jim is survived by his wife of 64 years, Kay. Two children Pamm Hardy (Jason), and Todd Rumbach (Denise). Three grandchildren Steffany Larrabee, Brandi Morgan (Jack) and Blake Rumbach (Megan). Three great-grandchildren Wyatt, Daniel, and Kari. His brother Tom Rumbach (Connie) and sister-in-law Karen Couturier. He was preceded in death by his parents, Amil and Mildred, his sisters Helen, Vicki, Ida and niece and nephews. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A Funeral Service honoring Jim will take place at 11 a.m., with visitation starting at 10 a.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the funeral Home. A remembrance lunch will follow at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Any memorial contributions can be made to Inland Seas Education Association in Suttons Bay, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Jim’s family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

James "Jim" E. Rumbach

October 31, 1935 - November 15, 2025