James Harry Brinkman, 71, of Traverse City died Sunday, February 15, 2015 at his home in Traverse City.

Jim was born on Monday, March 22, 1943 to the late Woodrow and Margaret (Robbins) Brinkman in Traverse City He attended Traverse City schools, graduating from Central High School in 1961. While in high school, he submitted cartoons that he drew and won several awards; one being first place National Cartoon Award of the Columbia Press Association - judged by Rube Goldberg who was a Pulitzer prize winner editorial cartoonist. Jim continued his education at NMC and earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master degree's from Western Michigan University. Jim married Vivian L. Prater Molitor on Friday, May 15, 1987 in Duluth, MN.

Jim taught school for a time at Allegan and Fife Lake. However, his love was journalism and he wrote for various publications, was editor for a weekly at the Daytona News Journal. and worked for the Leelanau Enterprise, particularly writing articles regarding historical topics of the area. He enjoyed stamp collecting and was an expert on all schooners, steam ships and frieghters that ran the Great Lakes. He was a recruiter for the Maritime Academy here, enjoyed photography as a hobby and was an avid antique VW enthuisiast. HIs greatest joy was sailing which he loved.

Jim is survived by his wife Vivian; his step-children, Cathy Molitor (Mike Scanlon) of Lake City; Jeri Molitor (Bill Muessig) of Traverse City; his step- grandchildren, Kaycee and Adam; 5 step-great grandchildren; a sister, Carol Brinkman of Traverse City and 2 nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Chris Hoopfer.

Jim's family would like to thank Jim's Doctor, nurses and staff who took such good care of him and enjoyed his humor.

At his request, no service will be held. Burial will be in Barnum Cemetery in the spring.

For those desiring, memorial contributions may be directed to the Leelanau Conservancy, Munson Hospice or the Cowell Family Cancer Center at Munson Medical Center.

Please share your memories of JIm by way of his online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.