James Larkin

LARKIN, JAMES, of Cedar Park, TX, formerly of Waterford, MI passed away November 5, 2023 at 84 years of age. Loving husband of Susan (née Meacham); dear father of Bill (Diane) Larkin, Michael Larkin, Jeff (Lynette) Adamo, Justin (San Marie) Dyer, Bryan (Liz) Dyer; grandfather of Erin, Jim, Ethan, Justine, Elyse, Brody, Chase, Michael, and Adeline; brother of Jean (Clark) Pariseau, Dave (Jacky) Larkin, Dan (Kathy) Larkin; preceded in death by daughter Elizabeth Kelly; brothers Leo and Stan Larkin; and sister in law Pat Larkin. Jim was born February 7, 1939 in Clarkston, MI and grew up in Waterford, MI and was a 1957 graduate of Waterford Township High School. Jim went on to attend Hillsdale College on a football scholarship and graduated in 1961. Recruited by Frank "Muddy" Waters, Jim was a two-time NAIA All-American during one of Hillsdale's most successful eras, 1958-1960. His time at Hillsdale would change his life. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos but due to injuries he chose to start his teaching and coaching career at Waterford Kettering High School. After coaching at Kettering for 11 years, he was offered an opportunity of a lifetime, to return to Hillsdale College as assistant coach with his former coach and mentor, Muddy Waters and would follow Waters to Saginaw to coach at Saginaw Valley State University.  In 1986, Jim returned to Waterford Kettering to finish out his career teaching and coaching. After retiring in 1999, Jim ran for a position on the Waterford Township School Board where he would serve for 8 years. In 2006, Jim was inducted into Hillsdale College Athletic Hall of Fame. Proud of his life’s work, Jim continued to tell the stories of his coaching and teaching career throughout his life. His football players held a special place in his heart. Off the field, he was a lifelong sailor and especially loved sailing on his beloved Tawas Bay. And to anyone who would listen, Jim’s face would light up when talking about his beloved Hillsdale, history and especially Waterford Township history. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, coaches, and players. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, June 13, 2024, from 1-4 PM at The Fountains Golf & Banquet, 6060 Maybee Rd, Clarkston, MI. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Jim's beloved football program, Waterford Kettering High School Athletic Dept, 2800 Kettering Drive, Waterford, Michigan 48329, and write Football in the memo line.

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