James Michael Butler was born October 8 1958 to Steve and Marilyn Butler in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He attended Milwood schools and graduated from Mattawan High School. Jim worked in the family's plumbing business operating Ommi Marble, manufacturing and distributing vanity countertops.Later in life Jim started his own sewer and backhoe company. He also worked for Custer Office Solutions for many years.

Jim enjoyed a number of sports throughout his life, starting with little league in school, then riding Motocross dirt bikes, and Jet Skis. He raced jet skis in the 1980s throughout Michigan and the country and participated in the World Cup Jet Ski Races in 1987. He loved golf and played as often as he could. He really enjoyed just driving anywhere and was always up for a road trip or new adventure. There were many trips with friends to NASCAR Races and Detroit Red Wings Hockey games.

Jim is survived by his Brother Rick Butler (Sarah), his brother Dan Butler, his sister Cindi Mercier (Robert) and nieces Ashley Current (Butler) and Danielle Mercier, as well as many close friends who loved and supported him throughout the years. He was preceded in death by his parents Steven S. Butler, Marilyn (Waterland) Butler and his brother Steven F. Butler.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial will be planned for spring, donations can be directed to the Disability Network Southwest Michigan or the Hanger Clinic of Kalamazoo in Jim's honor.