Obituary: James Milton Kilpela

As received from the Erickson Crowley Peterson Funeral Home:

On March 20, 2024, James Milton Kilpela died peacefully in his sleep at the Chelsea Retirement Center in Chelsea, Michigan. Leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those he held dear.

            Jim’s journey began on June 14, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, where he was born to parents Ano and Lillian (Luoma) Kilpela. He attended Sherrill grade school in his formative years. His parents moved to their Sylvan Lake home near Pontiac, Michigan, where Jim graduated from Waterford High School. After high school, Jim embarked on a remarkable academic journey that culminated in a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics from Michigan Technological University in 1958, and later earning a Master of Science in Electric Engineering from University of Southern California.

            Throughout his professional life, Jim made significant contributions, notably to Hughes Aircraft Company in California, where he worked on the moon lander. He moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, to work for Bendix Corporation where he designed radar antennae crucial for aircraft communication during tense times. For a short period, Jim moved to Houghton, Michigan, to manage The Book Concern, Inc. Next, in Norwalk, Connecticut, his engineering skills continued to shine at Ray Proof Shielding Systems before retiring in Wareham, Massachusetts.

            Jim was an ardent cyclist. He began cycling in 1976 with his participation in the Bikecentennial, a national bicycling celebration of the bicentennial. During his cycling life he logged more than 50,000 miles and the friends he made through this activity are what he cherished most.  

            Through cycling, Jim had a long friendship with Bonnie Lippincott, who shared his passion for, cycling, sea kayaking, lakeside strolls, and convivial gatherings with fellow biking and kayak enthusiasts.

            Jim was preceded in death by his loving parents Ano and Lillian, sisters Eunice and Margaret, and his beloved wife June Joanne Bergman. Surviving him are his sons Michael James (Suzanne), David Alan, Daniel Edwin (Sally), his cherished older brother Capt. Donald Sr. (Betty), and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.

               All his life, Jim exemplified his Christian values, including fervent advocacy of education, active living, and fostering strong bonds within his community. Even at 85, he braved icy conditions to deliver Meals on Wheels in Wareham. His interests spanned photography, astronomy, and lending his time to musical events, demonstrating his unwavering zest for life.

            In his final weeks, James found solace in watercolor painting, exercise, and cherished moments with beloved family members.

            Gratitude fills our hearts for Dr. Patrias and the compassionate staff at Chelsea Retirement Community and Gentiva staff, who provided unwavering care during challenging times.

            A memorial service for Jim will take place this summer in Copper Harbor, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Superior.