James W. McCarthy

Dr. James William McCarthy died peacefully on August 5, 2018 of complications from vascular dementia. He was 76.  Jim was born in Saginaw, Michigan January 6, 1942 to William and Evelyn McCarthy.  He is survived by his wife of 52 years Susan, sons; Patrick (Katherine), James, and Jonathan, granddaughter Reagan, brothers; Michael (Carolyn) and Kevin (Lily), as well as several nieces and nephews.  Jim was a family man, pediatrician, and car enthusiast.  He gained great joy from his work taking care of others as a pediatrician where he served his patients and families with skill and compassion. 

Jim’s Saginaw auto roots gave rise to his life-long passion for classic cars and auto road racing; other interests included current affairs and visual arts.  A devoted family man he enjoyed spending time with his family whether at home or taking them on road trips to explore national parks and other interesting locales.

Jim graduated from Arthur Hill High School, Michigan State University and Wayne State University School of Medicine.  He completed his pediatric residency at the University of Rochester School of Medicine.  He served two years in the Army at Fort Gordon, Georgia after which time he joined private pediatric practice in Grand Rapids working there for over 35 years.  He was one of the founders of the Grand Rapids Area Pediatric Evening Services clinic.  Jim benefited greatly the last 3 years of his life from gracious and benevolent care at Sunrise of Cascade and recently Hospice of Grand Rapids. 

The Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday August 10th at Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 2750 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with Fr. Scott Nolan as celebrant.  Visitation will be held Thursday from 4-7pm at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home and one hour prior to the mass at the church on Friday.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Helen DeVos Children's Hospital - Injury Prevention Program.  

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