Jim Colman Memorial Fund

I was four years old when my brother, Jim was born and from the very beginning it was apparent this kid would have a larger than life personality.  He sang, he danced, he loved meeting people, he loved helping people. Nothing made him happier than bringing a smile or laugh to someone else. He learned the art of storytelling at our dad's knee and was in his element while spinning tales, especially for children. With his infectious laugh and that mischievous twinkle in his eyes, it was no wonder that he spent many years as Santa Claus for the hundreds of children who attended his first employer (Eckerd Drugs') Christmas parties. In recent years, his bushy white beard - and that ever present twinkle - caused him to be stopped by many children in stores and other places, always wanting to know "Are you Santa?" He was never too busy to take a moment to talk with them and their parents, always leaving them smiling and promising to be good.  From a young age, he always put others before himself. When he was 15 and three tourists visiting the lake we grew up on capsized their boat in 90 feet of seaweed infested water, he jumped into our boat and putting his own life at risk he and two friends dived over and over until they were able to save two of the three victims. 

Several years ago, Jim was in a serious auto accident that left him with many lasting injuries. He continued to work but eventually those injuries led to life in a wheelchair and permanent disability.  He lived a simple life on limited funds but he never let that - or the pain of his injuries - dampen his joy of life. He enjoyed music (he had a beautiful singing voice), politics (he loved a rousing political discussion), cooking (Eggs Benedict were his specialty), humor (he remembered every joke he'd ever been told), football (he was an avid - and vocal - supporter of his hometown Watervliet (MI) Panthers , his beloved Florida State Seminoles (he was a proud FSU Grad), and our dad's Michigan Wolverines. He was a lifelong Cubs fan and I'm so grateful he lived long enough to see  them bring home the World Series trophy.  He loved his family and we love him. His passing has left a huge void in our lives. 

Two months ago, Jim collapsed and was taken to the hospital. He never returned home. In the early hours of August 30th, Jim took his final breath, waiting until those of us who hadn't left his side fell asleep. That was Jim; putting others before himself until the very end. 

Jim lived on a monthly Social Security disability payment that barely covered the necessities. I've started this fund to help with the medical bills that have mounted over the past two months as well as final expenses. Any excess funds will be used to help Jim's family.  We deeply appreciate any donation, however large or small.