James A. Madill, age 87, of Frederic passed away on August 1, 2023.
James, or Jimmy/Jim/Wally depending on your relationship to him, was born in Frederic to Albert D Madill and Harriet “Norma” Johnson. He graduated from Frederic High School (top of his class of 3, as he’d be quick to tell you) and from Central Michigan University where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree. He was an owner and head salesman of AuSable Woodworking Souvenir plant in Frederic. Jim was an accomplished tennis player and also helped the Grayling High School team for several years. Many tried, but could never win a match against Jim.
His career in the Souvenir Industry resulted in travel throughout the U.S. and he made friends all over the country. He was a respected leader in the industry for decades. Music was a very important part of his life and he loved to sing with family members. His children and grandchildren will remember him through the songs he sang and taught them. He served on the Frederic School Board and Grayling School Board for 3 terms each as well as the Frederic Township board. He was honored by the Crawford AuSable School district in 2014 as an Alumni Hall of Fame inductee.
James is survived by son Lewis (Kris) Madill of Frederic and daughter Lori (Dean) Smith of Grayling; grandchildren, Megan (Zach) Sheldon, Eric Madill, Hannah (Daniel) Haro, and Gabrielle (Dan) Harazin; great grandchildren Rowan, Barrett, Mina, Alan, and Cecilia; sisters Joan Kaiser, Diane (Dick) Thomas, Margaret (Harold) Partello; sister-in-law Maryda(Lyle) Mead and brother-in-law Mickey(Delores) Stillwagon, special friend Lorelei Haddad; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife Martha and parents Albert & Norma Madill.
Arrangements entrusted to Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.
