James "Jim" Morse, Sr.

James Kirkwood (Jim) Morse Sr, a life-long resident of Lake Ann passed away on December 30, 2025 at Munson Hospice House in Traverse City at the age of 96. He was born on January 9, 1929 on the family farm in Almira Township in Benzie County. He graduated from Honor High school in 1946. He lettered in Baseball and Basketball. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, never losing his love of the great outdoors. This appreciation was instilled in the several generations that followed.

He was drafted into the US Army in 1950 during the Korean conflict and was stationed with the 2nd Armored Division in Germany where he served as driver for Major General George Read. After his discharge in November 1952, he returned to Lake Ann where he married the former Patricia Ann Bryan at Traverse City St Francis Church on June 19, 1954.

Jim worked at the Traverse City State Hospital for nearly 30 years, retiring in 1984, starting as an attendant and retiring as a teacher’s assistant. He helped open Arnell Engstrom School in the early 1970’s where he taught automotive, woodshop and swimming. He was the Scoutmaster for Troop 37 at the school, while also heading Troop 105 of Lake Ann.

Jim was known for his community involvement and duty to service. He spent 58 years on the Almira Twp. Fire and EMS Department with 23 years as Chief. Jim was a charter member of the Lake Ann Lions Club serving 47 years. Jim was very involved in local Veterans groups notably inheriting flag placement services in Almira Township cemeteries for over 70 years.

Jim and Pat loved to travel, including several trips to Europe and throughout the United States. They spent many winters in Florida, including the past 20 years at Country Aire Village in Zephyrhills. They were long time members of Immaculate Conception and St Franscis of Assisi Church in Traverse City. His faith continued to grow throughout his lifetime. He told his family last week that he was ready to be with Jesus and that we are loved.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Pat, parents Bill and Esther Morse, sisters Jean Rosa and Helen White, brothers Bill Morse and James Arner. He is survived by his children Jim (Debi) Morse Jr, John (Ruthann) Morse, Jeff (Cheryl) Morse. Jay (Kim) Morse all of Lake Ann, and Jeanine (Dan) Michalski of Elk Rapids. Jim and Pat also had 13 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. He is also mourned by his special companion Suzanne Jackson McAtee and countless members of the Morse and Bryan families.

Family will receive visitors on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Life Story Funeral Home on Hammond Road in Traverse City at 10 AM with a Rosary Service at 11 AM. A funeral mass, luncheon and graveside service will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to Lake Ann Lions Club, Almira Fire and EMS association, or the Almira Township Veteran’s Memorial Committee.

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