James Franklin Hammond, 86 of Interlochen, passed away June 12, 2020 at his home with his family by his side.

Jim was born on September 11, 1933 in Vernal, Utah to the late James Elnathen and Irene (White) Hammond.

Jim honorably served our country as a member of the United States Army.

On December 26, 1959 Jim married Evelyn Poliski in Muskegon. Together they shared 59 years of marriage before she passed in 2019. They both enjoyed cribbage and played almost everyday.

Jim was a union carpenter and after he retired liked to work with his tools. He was a member of the Mid Michigan Independent Trappers for 50 plus years. He was a true animal whisperer and was one with the land. His family nicknamed him Grizzly Adams because he could catch or track anything. He was a true legend.

Jim also liked to garden and was known for his tomatoes. He also enjoyed tapping trees to make maple syrup and growing cabbage so he could turn it into sauerkraut. As a child of the Great Depression Jim did not waste anything. A MacGyver if you will, he could turn anything into something useful (or so he thought!).

Jim is survived by his children, Susan (Bob) Glass of Interlochen, Sandy Wing, Jimmy (Catherine) Hammond of Pellston, Thomas (Lisa) Hammond of Traverse City and Kathryn (John) Schoedel of Onekama; 13 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren a sister-in-law, Donna Poliski and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter Peggy Fellows and half sister Joyce Kerr.

Jim was a long time member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church. Visitation will take place at the church on Tuesday June 16, 2020 from 5 until 7 p.m. with the rosary being recited at 7 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday June 17, 2020 also at the church. Military honors will follow the mass.

Burial will be in Inland Township Cemetery at a later time.

Memorial contributions in Jim's honor may be directed to St. Patrick Catholic Church.