Jim on his favorite toy!
Our 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, Oct. 19, 2009. Born April 6, 1951, in Traverse City, he was the son of the late Ronald James and Viola (Wooter) Breithaupt.
On Sept. 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. Through the years, Rev. Jim shepherded the following churches: 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.
His children will fondly remember their Dad as a very patient man who was always willing to lend a listening ear, share his wisdom and a good joke.
As a scholar of the Bible, Rev. Jim’s favorite scripture was Psalm 139, which provided him with much comfort and solace. To honor him, please read his favorite Psalm and remember him and his love of Jesus Christ, his Savior.
As his hobbies, he enjoyed riding his Harley, woodworking, fishing and his two dogs, Fencil and Charlie.
Jim is survived by his wife of 25 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; 17 grandchildren; and siblings, Barb (Sid) Wilkins, Arthur (Jackie) Breithaupt and Clifford (Toni) Allen.
In remembrance of Rev. Jim, memorials may be directed to any worthwhile cause at any of the churches he served.
To every thing there is a season, a time to every purpose under the heaven: a time to be born,
a time to die, a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal,
a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance
Ecclesiastes3:1-4