Obituaries

James Lee Huffman, age 86, of Hessel, Michigan, died on August 22, 2026, at home. Born on October 20, 1939, in Trout Lake, Michigan, Jim was the son of Eva Lee and Joseph M. Huffman. His family later moved to the small town of Hessel, where he grew up and began developing the strong work ethic that would define him throughout his life.

As a young man, he left the area to serve in the United States Marine Corps. Following his discharge, he returned home to the area he loved, where his life took a new direction. On November 23, 1962, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betty” Gugin. Together, they built their own home in Hessel, where they raised their two children and created a lifetime of memories together.

Jim's strong work ethic began at a young age when he helped his father cut timber as a young boy. As he and Betty raised their family, Jim went to work for the local lumber company, where his dedication and hard work eventually led him to a management role he held until his retirement.

After retiring, Jim finally made good on a promise he had made for years—to get himself another dog. After his last dog passed away, the demands of work had kept him too busy to have another, but he often said that when he retired, he would have a dog again. And so came Spike, his little companion and constant sidekick. Jim also found that slowing down wasn't entirely for him, so he returned to work for a short time alongside his former son-in-law at his construction company, often packing a lunch for himself and Spike. He loved that little dog so much that it became a running joke within the family that Spike may have been the one Jim loved most of all—and anyone who saw the two of them together might have believed it.

Jim really did enjoy the simple things in life, and together he and Betty made countless memories with their family. They looked forward to taking a few trips by bus each year and loved going for drives—whether it was a leisurely Sunday drive, a visit with friends or family, or simply an excuse to get out of the house and enjoy the day. They also shared a love for playing cribbage and were part of a cribbage league alongside many of their friends. Those gatherings were filled with friendly competition, wonderful friendships, and, most importantly, plenty of laughter.

Above all else, Jim loved his family deeply. He was a devoted father and grandfather who would go above and beyond for those he loved, always willing to lend a hand, offer his support, or simply make sure his children and grandchildren had what they needed—and often a little more. Generous to a fault, he took great joy in spoiling his family and found happiness in seeing the people he loved happy. His love was not only spoken but shown time and time again through the countless ways he cared for and provided for his family.

Jim is survived by his children, James L. (Valerie) Huffman Jr. and Lisa Colegrove; grandchildren, Rachel (Brandon) LaForte, Jennifer Huffman, Danielle (Noah) Lindberg, Olivia Huffman, Brandon Warner, James Huffman, Loreena (Danny) Loquercio, Tiffany (Ray) Drake, Alyssa Gravelle, and Elizabeth Colegrove; beloved great-grandchildren, Evan Lindberg, Evelynn Drake, Emery Drake, Octavia Huffman, Emersyn Huffman, Kaylee Fisher, Colton Fisher, Hunter Heacock, and Hadlee Heacock; as well as one great-grandson expected to arrive in September. Each of them was a special part of his life and will carry his memory with them always.

Also surviving are his sisters, Dorothy Currie and Mona Gugin, and his brothers, Chuck and Bill Huffman, along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty; his parents, Joseph “Joe” M. Huffman and Eva Lee Huffman; and his brothers, Ron, Don, Carl, and Robert Huffman.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com. Obituary submitted by Family.