TRAVERSE CITY – James E. Kavalar, 79, of Traverse City, passed away on Tuesday, July 2, 2013 at Munson Hospice House. Jim was born on June 8, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Alfred and Alice (Haslam) Kavalar. He was married to Barbara Howard in 1953 in Detroit. She preceded him in death on April 7, 2000. Jim had been employed as an engineer with Ford Motor Company for 35 years. He retired in 1988. Jim was a member of Grace Episcopal Church. He was also a member of the Traverse City HOG Club. Among his interests, Jim loved sailing and riding his motorcycle.

Surviving are a daughter and a son; Debra (Ken) Cooper of Rea, MO, Michael Kavalar of Allen Park, MI, two grandchildren; Kimberly (Noeu) Chan and Michael Kavalar, two great-grandchildren; Kirsten Chan and Aidan Chan, a sister, Dorothy Miner and a brother, John (Pat) Kavalar. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews and his beloved dog, Sushi.

Jim was preceded in death by a son James A. Kavalar and a brother, Tom Kavalar.

A memorial service honoring Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2013 at Grace Episcopal Church, 341 Washington St., Traverse City. Friends are welcome to visit at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the service.

Memorials donations can be made to Father Fred Foundation.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories of Jim through www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

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