James (Jim) Laurence St. Pierre, 74, went home to Heaven on July 22nd, 2025, after he bravely fought a brief yet relentless battle.
Jim was born and raised in Monroe, Michigan where he later married the love of his life, Carol VanDuser on January 21st, 1972, at St. Mary's Catholic Church. They spent a lifetime choosing each other, creating adventures out of small moments, building a safe place for their beautiful children and became the best grandparents to their granddaughters; a living reflection of a full life.
After graduating high school from Catholic Central High School in 1968, Jim was called to serve in the United States Army. We honor him for his sacrifice and service he gave to our country. He proudly served his country in the US Army from March 1970 to October of 1971 serving time in Vietnam, he was honorably discharged and received several acknowledgements and medals during his tour. Before his passing, Jim was awarded a pin for his dedication to his country in a ceremonial pinning which took place at the VA in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
After his service, Jim worked at Hi-Way Lumber and eventually New Boston Lumber for 40 years, starting by working as a yard guy and through much dedication he worked his way up to management. His loyalty was pictured in many different aspects of his life, which was just one of the many special things about him. After leaving the lumber industry, he started at Monroe Public Schools where he was affectionately known as Mr. Jim, worked alongside his son and impacted more lives in a school year than most reach in a lifetime. During his time working at Arborwood Elementary, it became a yearly tradition for him to escort the same mama duck and her hatchlings to safety, a soul that everyone felt safe with.
His journey on this earth was marked by laughter, pure joy and a love that surpassed any worldly definition. He enjoyed working in the garden, spending time in his yard, going on airboat rides and dolphin tours during his trips to Florida and would fish just about anywhere. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended but for the way it was lived, for the things he loved about life and for the profound impact he had on those who were lucky enough to cross paths with him.
Jim was the glue and foundation of a family intentionally handpicked to love one another by the Creator. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Carol, son, Jim, daughter-in-law Nicole, daughter Christy, and his two granddaughters, Paige and Reece. He also leaves behind his brothers Robert (Joann) St. Pierre, Alan (Donna) St. Pierre and sister Jill (John) Gagnon. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Mary St. Pierre, sister Janet and brother-in-law Mike Ready as well as his infant daughter, Melissa who he will have the pleasure of meeting again and will certainly be the best father once more.
Jim was known for his outpouring love for being a dedicated dad who found joy in taking his kids fishing at Houghton Lake, going hunting with his son, and having many "I love you" battles with his daughter during her childhood. He was the best papa and devoted much time to making special memories from keeping up his traditional coffee can gifts at Christmas to giving the best hugs just when you needed them.
Jim's love for others and for life itself echoed his faith. He was a lifelong member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and lived the love of Christ through his actions. His commitment to living a full and joy-filled life was everything the Lord intended. He is now in Heaven knowing the love of the Lord will be his family's forever strength. "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18.
Thank you for your service soldier, you may now stand down.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 27, 2025 at Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Road, Monroe, where funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday. Military honors will be performed by VFW Post 1138, Monroe with Fr. Alan Zobler, OSFS officiating. In accordance with Jim's wishes cremation will take place after services.
In honor of his memory and in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to two organizations close to his heart. Donations may be made to Unique Foundations, Inc., the nonprofit founded by his son and daughter-in-law, which they are launching into a Christian based elementary school. He deeply loved hearing and helping them out in any way he could. Donations can be sent to 1810 Cedar St., Rockledge, FL, 32955 or at https://givebutter.com/0g8odl
Gifts may also be made to The VA Hospital's Hematology Department, where he received compassionate care throughout his courageous battle with cancer; Checks can be made payable to CDCE GPF#4008 or online donations made to https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/
Both causes reflect his enduring spirit of resilience, service, and love for family.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .