Mr. James J. Engle

James John ["Jim the Barber"] Engle. A prominent staple of Grosse Ile's heritage came to an end last week. James [aka; Jim the Barber] Engle a longtime Grosse Ile fixture, died Saturday August 3rd, 2013 at Henry Ford Hospital. He was 80 years old. He was born January 25, 1933 in Detroit, grew up in Romulus, served in the Korean War from 1953 -1955. Engle graduated from Detroit's "La Mar Barber College" in 1957. He moved to Grosse Ile Township in his late 30's when he opened "Jim's Barber Shop" in 1965. When he retired June 9th 1998 he wrote in the Ile Camera, "In 1965, I built a barber shop in Grosse Ile. In those 33 years I gave a lot of first haircuts, and sadly, a lot of last haircuts. In those years you told me when your children were getting married, about your vacations, your new cars and I have thought of you as friends not just customers. So it is with a little sadness that I retire." As an avid antique collector and gardener, he received numerous recognitions from the Township for his various contributions. [Beautification Committee, historical postcards, & the Boar's Head Festival]. He also enjoyed cruising, traveling abroad and hosting black-tie parties. He was also known for his quick wit, great story telling, and empathetic ear. Jim was a beloved husband of 16 years to Carolyn Engle, loving brother of Joan [Tom] Ward and a devoted father to Diane [Gregg] Grothjan and Stephen [Julie] Engle. He is survived by 2 grandchildren; Eric and Emily Grothjan, 4 step grandchildren; Nicholas and Jessica Grothjan, Alan [Maggie] Fauser and Stephen Fauser. Also survived by 3 step great grandchildren; Seline, Easton & Finn Fauser.