James Anthony Dabbous, 75, of Rockford, MI, died peacefully on June 11, 2025, with his family by his side.

Jim was a handsome man with eyes that wrinkled at the corners and sparkled whenever he smiled. He was humble and lived a simple life. It was from this deep sense of contentment—and a devotion as a father—that he never wanted more for himself and instead gave all he had to his children. His beautiful eyes live on in his children, each a reflection of the deep love he had for them.

When Jim learned in early 2025 that his cancer had returned and was inoperable, he shared the news with family and close friends. Over the next three months, his sister, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a steady stream of beloved lifelong friends visited as often as they could, lifting his spirits each time. Reflecting on those visits, Jim told his children, "These have been the best days of my life."

Jim was born on December 6, 1949, in Michigan City, Indiana, the second child of Antoine Dabbous, a professional chef and Egyptian immigrant of Lebanese descent, and Effie (née Haddad) Dabbous, the daughter of Lebanese immigrants. He grew up in the 900 block of Ohio Street in Michigan City, in a large bi-cultural household that included his sister, parents, grandparents, two uncles, and two aunts. Family was the center of Jim's life—not only for his own extended family but also the Hammond family, who remained close to him and whom he cherished deeply throughout his life. He often told his children, "If you don't have family, you don't have anything."

Jim attended St. Mary's Grade School and graduated from Marquette High School in 1968. He loved sharing stories about the mischief he and his buddies got into during those years. He played many sports throughout his youth, especially enjoying baseball. As he grew older, he took pleasure in playing a round of golf, bowling in a league, and enjoying a ride on his motorcycle down a quiet country road. After high school, Jim attended Davenport University. While attending a college picnic at Townsend Park, he met Kathy Jeanne Hammond. They married in 1977, made their home in Belmont, and raised four children together—they were the reason he worked so hard.

He is survived by his children: Deborah Shears of Belmont; Patricia Wells (husband Jordan Wells) of Freeport; Nicholas Dabbous (wife Heather Dabbous) of Hudsonville; and Nicole Dabbous of Rockford.
He is also survived by his grandchildren: Brandon Christian Hartman, Aubree Crabb, Ethan Crabb, Kinsley Bennett, Ezra Dabbous, and Ellie Dabbous; and by his sister, Annette Wienke. He is lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Antoine and Effie Dabbous; his brother-in-law, Eugene Wienke; and his former wife, Kathy Dabbous.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the Hidden Glades Clubhouse – 1340 Post Drive NE, Belmont, MI 49306. You're invited to stop by anytime between 4:00 and 7:00 PM to enjoy a meal, share memories, and listen to the music Jim loved— the soulful sounds that drifted in from Chicago and shaped the soundtrack of his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes written memories, photos, or messages of condolence. These may be shared by email with: Debbie Shears – djmcrabb@gmail.com; Patricia Dabbous Wells –pattyckd@gmail.com; Nicholas Dabbous – Njdabbous@yahoo.com; Nicole Dabbous –mnjtd@yahoo.com, or brought to the Celebration of Life on July 25.