James Mclaughlin

James “Jim” Allen McLaughlin, 73, Ann Arbor, passed away March 14, 2021. He was born November 25, 1947 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Vern and Virginia McLaughlin. He married Ellen J. Keeler on March 3, 2003. She preceded him in death on July 31, 2020. After graduating from Dearborn High School, Jim received an Associate’s Degree in Drafting Technology from Henry Ford Community College and attended Western Michigan University until he was drafted in 1970. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, including a tour in Viet Nam, earning the rank of Sergeant. After his honorable discharge in late 1971, Jim began his career as a draftsman and mechanical engineer: as an Engineer at Production Equipment, Assistant Chief Engineer at R&B Tool Company, and as Vice-President of Records and a Mechanical Engineer at Ann Arbor Machine for 21 years. Jim enjoyed spending time with Ellen and Jacob, travelling, watching movies, listening to music, baseball, golf, Nascar, collecting watches, and, CARS. He built model cars, accumulated a large diecast model car collection, owned several classic cars (showing and receiving several awards), and auto cross and drag racing his Corvettes. Jim was a member of the Corvette Club of Michigan, National Corvette Club, and Pantera Owners Club for 40 years. Jim is survived by his stepson, Jacob S. Dzurnak. Interment will be in Parkview Cemetery, Livonia, Michigan. Memorials may be made to Vietnam Veterans of America or Disabled American Veterans. Please share a memory of Jim on his tribute wall.