of Chelsea, Michigan, age 86, died Saturday, April 26, 2014 in Chelsea. He was born May 25, 1927 in Detroit, the son of Edwin I. and M. Louise (Ives) Gaunt.
Jim was vice-president of his senior class, graduating from Chelsea High School in 1945, he served one year in the Navy right after high school, then earned a Bachelors Degree in Economics from the University of Michigan in 1950. He worked with his father in the family floral business (Southview) starting as a young boy, and the floral business became his life's work. After a partnership for several years, the business became Jim's in 1960 when his dad retired. In the 1970's and 80's he was an active member and President of several floral associations (Detroit Allied Florists, Michigan State Floral Association and Wholesale Florists and Floral Suppliers of America). He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Society of American Florists. He served as a member of the National PromoFlor Council 1995-1997. Jim sold his business to his three boys when he turned 65, but continued to participate for many years. In 2010, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Michigan Floral Association. He was an active member of the Chelsea United Methodist Church. He enjoyed playing Hearts and Bridge with friends.
On July 7, 1951, Jim married Donna L. Kalmbach at the Salem Grove United Methodist Church, and she preceded him in death on March 20, 2014. Survivors include three sons, Daniel (Antoinette Keim) Gaunt of Chelsea, Richard “Ric” (Debra) Gaunt of Walled Lake, Thomas (Laura) Gaunt of White Lake; seven grandchildren, Steven (Richele), Kristin (Ethan) McLaughlin, Nicole, Michelle, David, Chelsea, Nicholas “Nick”; three great-grandchildren, Olivia, Isla, and Oliver; four nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Edwin Ives Gaunt in 1937.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, April 30, 11:00 am at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial followed at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. The family received friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Tuesday 3-8 pm and at the church Wednesday from 10-11 am. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea First United Methodist Church, 128 Park St, Chelsea, MI 48118.