James Allen Kuntz

James Allen Kuntz, age 63, of Plymouth, Michigan, passed away unexpectantly on May 18, 2024.  He was born in Hart, Michigan, on September 22, 1960 to the late Helen (nee Schoenberg) and George A. Kuntz.  He was best described as kind, brilliant, and wickedly funny.  He is deeply loved and will greatly missed by his siblings, Karen (Wayne) Thompson and George L. Kuntz, Jr., along with countless friends, frat brothers, and co-workers.  

Jim grew up in Shelby and graduated from Shelby High School.  He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science.  He was a Sigma Pi fraternity member and has stayed in touch with many of his frat brothers since college.  He was an accomplished Computer Systems Engineer for 40 years--primarily in the auto industry--most recently at Accurate Technologies, Inc., in Novi for 20 years.   

Jim maintained an excellent work/life balance.  He was a long-time member of the Detroit Yacht Club.  He spent nearly every weekend there during boating season and referred to his watercraft as his “floating downtown condo.”  Many years he had the honor of being first in the harbor reflecting his enthusiasm for DYC.  He developed many close relationships with fellow DYC members and became family to several.  He was quick to volunteer his handyman skills and tools for needed repairs on others’ boats and around the Club.  He enjoyed inviting friends and frat brothers down to DYC and was proud to treat them to a ride along the Detroit River or an OABI (Once Around Belle Isle) followed by dinner in the Clubhouse.  

Jim’s hobbies became his obsessions—first it was biking, then photography, later golf, and ultimately woodworking, kayaking, and his time at DYC.   He showered his family, co-workers, and DYC family with custom-made woodworking projects.  He was very proud of his creations--but never boastful--he was sharing his joy for woodworking!  He had two kayaks specifically so he could invite non-kayak-owner friends to join him in exploring nature on Belle Isle and along the Detroit River.  He was so generous with his time and his many skills and talents.  

A celebration of Jim’s incredible life will be held at the Detroit Yacht Club on Saturday, June 29^th, at 5:30 pm.  Dress code is Hawaiian prints in honor of Maui Jim.  Non-DYC members will need to RSVP’s to either family or fellow frat brothers for admission to the Club.  A private gathering will also be held in West Michigan for family and friends later this summer.  In lieu of cards or flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, WTVS – Detroit PBS Channel 56, or WDET 101.9 Detroit Public Radio.