Obituary of James Robertson

Dear Family and Friends,

With a heavy heart I make this announcement.

October 12, 2021 my father, James Philip Robertson, Sr. passed into the hands of our Lord Jesus Christ.

James (Jim) Philip Robertson, Sr. age 87, of Tucson Arizona passed away peacefully on October 12, 2021 surrounded by his wife Carol, son James, Jr. and son in-law Gabriel.

James was survived by his wife, Carol June, his son, James Jr. and his grandchildren, Tommy Clair and Emily Page Thompson.

James Philip Robertson, Sr. was born in 1934, in Saginaw Michigan of the parents, Thomas James and Mary Lou Robertson. James was the proud older brother of Janet (the only sister) and twin brothers Daniel and Duane. Raised in the farm life near Birch Run Michigan where he graduated from Birch Run High School with honors. Then attended Michigan State University where he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree and was a member of The Farm House Fraternity. Later in 1968, James earned his MBA from The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Just after graduation from Michigan State University, James enlisted in the Michigan Army National Guard where he served until 1961.

After taking Carol June Price to “The Prom”, May 1953, their wedding followed on November 9, 1957. Soon thereafter, the two newlyweds secured an apartment in Flint Michigan where James began his career in public service as a Sanitarian for Genesee County Health Department located in Flint. In 1958 their first child, James Jr. was born and in 1961 their daughter Judy was born.

James’ Christian faith was supported by his involvement with the Presbyterian Church. First with The Taymouth Presbyterian Church near Birch Run and then with The First Presbyterian Church in Flint Michigan. After their move to Tucson Arizona James became involved with St. Andrews Presbyterian Church and then finally North Minster Presbyterian Church.

In 1977 James was able to continue his public service by accepting a job offer in Tucson Arizona as Director of Environmental Health at the Pima County Health Department until his retirement in 1993.

James always had an active life. Even in retirement he continued to restore mid-century Studebaker pickups and automobiles, hike Sabino Canyon, tour the Pima County library for the newest books, deliver meals to the shut-in elderly, a faithful member of the choir in both Tucson churches, and a residential income landlord. It shouldn’t go unsaid that Grandpa’s Taxi was busy for the grandchildren Amanda (Tommy), Emily and James, III. Regardless if the delivery was for softball, basketball, baseball, football, swimming, Tae-kwon do, or pilot training Grandpa was there with French Fries and snacks.

James believed:

In being self-sufficient, no one will care for you and your family better than yourself

A solid work ethic, be the first to arrive and the last to leave

Donate and share your blessings, donate your time, money and smiles

James will be laid to rest October 29, 2021 in a private ceremony with his family.

Praise God, His will be done.

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