James G. Retzloff

Age 78, of Crystal, Michigan passed away November 29, 2017 in Tyler, Texas.

James was born May 31, 1939 in Lansing, the son of Gail and Winifred (Hay) Retzloff. He graduated from Eastern High School with the class of 1957 and from General Motors Institute in 1963. James married Julia White on August 8, 1959 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Lansing. He was a member of the Hope Lutheran Church in Stanton and enjoyed collecting and photographing green depression ware.

James started his career as a fire protection engineer with General Motors. After General Motors, he worked for Viking Corporation. He served as President of the Michigan Industrial Fire Protection Association and as a member of the Executive Committee of the NFPA Industrial section. He served on many other boards and helped write some of the current fire regulations used worldwide. He received many accolades for his service and dedication to fire safety, such as the NFPA Service award and the Technical Service award at the North American Fire Sprinkler Expo.

He is survived by his wife Julia, daughters Peggy L. (Larry Taylor) Retzloff, Bonnie L. (Eric) May, Wendy L. Retzloff, grandchildren Frances Taylor, James May and a brother Ronald (Marlene) Retzloff. James was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 3, 2018 at 11 am at the Evergreen Township Cemetery, Sheridan, Michigan with Rev. Alexander Sabol officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your local Hospice Organization. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Lux and Schnepp Funeral Home, Crystal. To view James’s obituary or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.luxfuneralhomes.com