None
EN
AMSTADT, James Mar 21, 1934 - Sep 21, 2025
[]
The Record-Eagle: All Categories
TRAVERSE CITY [mdash] James "Jim" William Amstadt, 91, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on March 21, 1934, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jim was the son of the late Frank Anton and Harriet Ruth (Lemanczyk) Amstadt. He graduated from Marquette University and went on to enjoy a
distinguished 35-year
career with General Motors, retiring in 1991.
On August 14, 1953, Jim married the love of his life, Roberta Mary Behm.
Together they shared 72 wonderful years of marriage and raised a beautiful family filled with love, laughter, and lifelong memories.
Jim had a passion for learning and a deep sense of curiosity that fueled his love of travel. Throughout his life, he visited 58
countries, with cherished trips to Scotland, South Africa, and Egypt. It was during his business trips to Scotland that he discovered his lasting appreciation for Scotch whisky.
Jim gave generously of his time to his community,
serving as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where he served as Grand Knight for five years. Jim also served as the President of his neighborhood condo association for 10 years and as a longtime Little League umpire. He also developed and mentored the local youth umpire
program. In his younger days, Jim was known to
delight friends and family with his
accordion playing.
A dedicated
engineer, Jim was part of the
guidance systems department that supported the historic Apollo space missions. His contributions were so significant that his name is commemorated on the moon.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Roberta, and their children; James
Amstadt, Robert Amstadt, Mary (John) Kelsey, Kristine (Robert) Holder, Steven (Jaime) Amstadt, and Susan (Rodney) Prater. He also leaves behind 15
grandchildren; Joseph, Robert, John, Samantha, Amanda, Ashley, Coryell, Allison, Michael, Alex, Nicholas, Tate, Tobyn, Teagen, Chelsea, and Stephanie; 16 great-grandchildren; and his brother-in-law, Alex (Nancy) Behm.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 11 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with visitation
beginning at 10:30 am. A luncheon will follow at
Sleder's Family Tavern.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Traverse
Regional Land Conservancy, an organization close to Jim's heart. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your condolences and memories with his family.