James T. Baldwin

James T. Baldwin, age 61, of Escanaba, passed away Thursday evening, May 12, 2022 at U.P. Health System – Marquette. He was born on July 7, 1960 in Monroe, MI, the son of James W. and Betty (Terry) Baldwin. James was raised and attended school in Monroe, MI and then relocated to Florida in 1980. He married the former Jeanice Sudler on May 1, 1982 in Gainesville, FL. Together, the couple shared 40 years of marriage and raised 2 sons. After living there for a few years, they moved to Thunder Lake in the Hiawatha National Forest where he managed the Whispering Pines Resort. In 1990, the family moved to Escanaba and James began Baldwin Trucking Company and worked as an over-the-road truck driver. He changed careers in 1994 to own and operate the Escanaba Clock Shop. He ran the business until he had to retire due to health reasons. James greatly enjoyed the outdoors and spending time on his four-wheeler. You could often find James driving his scooter on the sidewalk to and from his dialysis appointments. Family meant everything to James, he always had a positive attitude, never felt sorry for himself, and always had a smile to share. James loved music, singing, and had a huge place in his heart for his dog, Duke, who passed away 6 years ago. He was a father figure to many kids, helped volunteer with the Red Cross, and served as volunteer firefighter in Ensign Township and Inwood Township. Above all, he had a passion for racing his stock car at the U.P. International Raceway until health reasons from his diabetes forced him to retire. He stayed greatly involved with UPIR as the flagman in Escanaba and also helped at both the Sands Speedway and the Norway Speedway.

James is survived by his wife, Jeanice Baldwin of Escanaba; sons, James E. “Tiny” Baldwin of Escanaba, and Joshua Baldwin of Escanaba; sisters, Jayne (Jimmie) Crawford of Gainesville, FL, and Joyce Baldwin (Dustin Frady) of Ford River; brother, Jerry (Beth) Baldwin of Escanaba; father, James W. (Rose) Baldwin of Monroe, MI; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Rogers; and nephew, Eric Baldwin.

A Celebration of James’ Life will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Sunday, May 22, 2022 at New Life Church in Escanaba. In honor of James, the family requests those attending to please wear his favorite color of lime green. A memorial fund has been established at Embers Credit Union in Escanaba to help with James’ funeral expenses. 

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