James “Jim” Charles Roth, a pole vaulter who competed until he was 80, died peacefully on June 2, 2023, at the age of 86.
An outstanding track and field athlete, Roth won numerous medals in competition. He was a standout high school pole vaulter, taking first place in the Kentucky High School Track and Field finals, a feat that earned him a scholarship to Bellarmine University in Louisville, in 1956. He was also an avid Senior Olympics pole vaulter, competing until the age of 80. His love of the sport extended to his coaching local high school track and field athletes.
Jim purchased a home on Long Lake in Hartland, where he lived for nearly 40 years. He enjoyed water sports and frequently ended his days with an evening swim across the lake.
Prior to selling real estate for RE/MAX Platinum in Brighton, Roth was a salesman and district manager for the U.S. Shoe Co.
Jim was the third of eight children that included Dan, Mark, John, Therese Bower [Teecy], and Jane. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Frances Roth; his brother, Joe; his sister, Mary Ann; his son, David; and his girlfriend, Maureen Simair.
He is survived by his four living children: James Roth Jr. (Kelly) of Pinckney; Jill Roth of Baltimore, MD; Allison Corcoran of Ann Arbor; and Ann Roth, of Detroit. He also leaves behind six grandchildren and two great grandchildren: Mitchell (Paige) and Keiffer Roth, Austin and Cecilia Roth-Eagle, Rachel and Elisabeth Corcoran, and Riley and Tatum. He relished time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and shared with them his love of sports and family outings, creating beautiful memories that will be treasured for years to come.
A memorial service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, June 24 at 2:00 pm at the Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes’ MacDonald Chapel, 315 North Michigan Avenue, Howell, MI 48843. The family will be holding a private reception after the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Plastic Offset Program 4Ocean Environmental Conservation Organization.
Jim’s fun-loving spirit and dedication to his children and grandchildren will be remembered within the hearts of his family. He was a loving father, a dedicated coach, and a true champion both on and off the field.
