James Richard Hack Sr.

Jul. 20, 1946 - Nov. 13, 2023

James R. "Jim" Hack, Sr., 77, of Dowagiac, passed away on Monday, November 13, 2023, in the presence of loved ones.

Jim was born on July 20, 1946, in South Bend, Indiana, to Donald & Adeline (Ring) Hack. After graduating from John Adams High School in 1966, he dutifully enlisted in the U.S. Army and married the love of his life, Jeanne (Bellairs) Hack on September 3rd, 1967. Jim bravely served our country overseas in the Vietnam Conflict until his return, in 1968, following combat injury and honorable discharge from the armed forces where he received a purple heart for his sacrifices. In 1969 the couple welcomed their beautiful son, James R. Hack Jr. (deceased) into the world and began building their life as a family of three. Jim was employed at National Copper in Dowagiac, Michigan for over 30 years after his return from combat.

In his free time, Jim had many hobbies that allowed him to build lifelong friendships with those around him. Notably, him and his wife frequented local and national antique car shows where he showcased the myriad of vehicles he restored and poured love into over the years. After much searching, he found his dream cars which included a 1965 Chevy Impala convertible and an 2009 Dodge Challenger (his favorite). Jim was also an active member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics. One of his favorite pastimes was building and flying model airplanes and gliders, and he shared this passion with his son. Jim recently won 1st place in the 'Super D' category at the 2023 Free Flight Nationals in Muncie, Indiana, among his countless other awards stretching back 20+ years.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and loved nothing more than his family. He truly touched the lives of everyone he met and spread smiles to all through his kind heart. Not only does this define him, but everything he achieved, he did with conviction and honor. He will be remembered most for his strong will, compassion, and remarkable sense of humor.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jeanne S. Hack; daughter-in-law, Maria L. Hack; grandchildren, Samantha J. Hack and William R. (Adell) Hack; and brothers, Larry (Bonnie) Hack and Jerry Hack.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 18th at Brown Funeral Home followed by funeral services at 6:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jim's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Photos, condolences, and memories may be left for Jim's family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles.

11/15/2023 DEC

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