James ("Jim") Balmer Whitney, 74, passed away peacefully at his home on Portage Lake in Onekama, Michigan, on August 14, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born May 4, 1951, in Tecumseh, Michigan, Jim was the son of Samuel and Janet Whitney. He enjoyed an active childhood with his brothers, Sam and Tim, while his sister Susie kept the boys in line.

Jim graduated from the University of Michigan in 1972 with a degree in Special Education. Guided by a passion for helping the next generation learn, he pursued a career in educational publishing, rising to become President of a publicly traded company called Educational Insights, where his products reached classrooms across the country.

In 1981, Jim met the love of his life, Lillian Sauceda. They married in 1984 in Santa Barbara, California, and shared 41 years together. They raised two children, Austin and Laura, who were his greatest joy. He was a life long music lover with a special place in his heart for Van Morrison and the Grateful Dead. He rarely missed a Wolverines or Lions game.

After four decades in California, Jim and Lillian retired to Onekama to fulfill his dream of life on a lake. In the last year of his life he cherished meeting his first granddaughter and attending his son's wedding in his final year.

Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, caring brother, and loyal friend. He will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife Lillian; children Austin and Laura; granddaughter Sloane and siblings Sam, Tim, and Susie.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 23 at 2:00 p.m. at First Congregational UCC, in Onekama.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Americans Civil Liberties Union. These causes were very close to his heart. Donations can made on their website or by calling 1-888-567-2258. Please note that its in memory of James Whitney and that his son, Austin Whitney, is the recipient of email confirmations.