James Steven Garfield, Sr.

Garfield, James Steven, Sr. - Age 89, of Fenton Twp., died January 5, 2026. Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 AM Saturday, January 10, 2026 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Fr. David Harvey celebrant. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery, Fenton. Visitation will be held 9 AM - 11 AM Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to Fenton Township Fire Department. James was born on August 22, 1936, in Detroit, the son of Steven and Bernice (Karazim) Golembiewski. He was a graduate of St. Hedwig High School, where he met the love of his life, Joan S. Nowinski. They were married on June 23, 1956, in Detroit. Joan preceded him in death on June 9, 2016. Jim proudly served as a City of Detroit police officer. Following the Detroit riots, he moved his family to Lake Fenton, where he became a prominent real estate developer, entrepreneur, and business owner. He owned and operated Jimmy G’s Restaurant for many years, along with several other area businesses. Jim was a past president of the Lake Fenton School Board and was deeply involved in the Lake Fenton and Fenton communities. He was also an active member of St. John the Evangelist Church.. Surviving are: four children, Jeffrey (Mary) Garfield of Gaylord, Dr. James (Linda) Garfield of Fenton, June Garfield Ryan of Fenton and Joan Garfield (Charles) Cox of Fenton; 10 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren and one on the way; sister, Dorothy Kott; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and two brothers. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com