James Lee Breithaupt
10/19/2009
The Rev. James Lee Breithaupt, 58, a Methodist Minister of Lake Ann and Sears, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Monday afternoon, October 19, 2009. Jim is survived by his wife of twenty-five years; Kathleen Ann "Kathy" Breithaupt of Lake Ann and Sears; children; Jayson (partner, Tim Hillock) Breithaupt, Jennifer (Paul) Sladek, Floyd (Mary) Breithaupt, Joshua (partner-Layna Devincent) Kratky, Angela (Andrew) Davenport, Kally (partner, Belinda Boggiano) Breithaupt, Jessica (Ned) Milne, Jayme (Lindsay) Kratky, Jeremy (Kristin) Kratky and Letitia Breithaupt; seventeen grandchildren; siblings, Barb (Sid) Wilkins, Arthur (Jackie) Breithaupt and Clifford (Toni) Allen.
Born April 6, 1951, in Traverse City, he was the son of the late Ronald James and Viola (Wooter) Breithaupt. On September 22, 1984, in Traverse City, he married Kathleen Ann (Lempke) Kratky. Their marriage combined two families, bringing together a total of 10 children.
Jim was a proud veteran, who faithfully served his country with the United States Army.
At a very young age, Jim received a calling to become a minister. His calling was realized and fulfilled later in life as he became a Methodist Minister. Pastor Breithaupt served at the following appointments in the West Michigan Conference: Emmanuel United Methodist Church as a Youth Director and Minister to Grant United Methodist Church, Lake Ann United Methodist Church, Sears United Methodist Church, Brooks Corners and Barryton-Faith United Methodist Church. He truly was a servant of God, which enabled him to reach out to many in a very kind, lovable and faithful way. He will be remembered for his mentoring abilities, servant heart, and his immense love for God.
Friends may call at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home this evening, Wednesday, October 21, 2009 from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., where the Breithaupt family will receive friends.
Open visitation will be Thursday, October 22, 2009 from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 6th Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.
A Memorial Service will be held Friday, October 23, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. near Lake Ann UMC, held at the New Life Center (at the corner of First St. and Lake Ann Rd) located at 19000 1st Street, Lake Ann, MI 49650. Rev. Devon Harrell will preside over the "Celebration of Life," for this good and faithful servant of God.
In remembrance of Rev. Jim, memorials may be directed to any worthwhile cause at any of the churches he served. Memorial envelopes may be obtained either at the funeral home or church. Kindly share your memories with the family on their online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.
Flowers or condolences may be sent to the family care of the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 6th Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.