James F. Schrot

James F. Schrot, age 92, longtime resident of Northville, passed away March 20, 2025. He was born August 11, 1932 in Detroit, Michigan; son of Leo and Nora (Roberts) Schrot. James was united in marriage to Bonnie J. Renaud on June 21, 1952; they were high school sweethearts and spent 72 years together. He proudly served his country as a Specialist Third Class in the United States Army.

James graduated from Assumption College Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario; class of 1951. Following high school, he attended trade school and completed an apprenticeship to become a skilled electrician. He dedicated many years to his work with the IBEW Local 58 before retiring for over 25 years now. In between commercial construction projects, Jim served his community as a Northville Township Reserve Police Officer and was later elected to the position of Constable in Western Wayne County. He was proud to be one of the founding members, alongside his eldest son, of the Northville Township Volunteer Fire Department and was a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Jim also put his expertise to good use, working as security and providing traffic control for businesses in the area. 

James was a member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church for many years. He had a deep love for the outdoors and nature. He volunteered as a Boy Scout Troop Leader for his eldest boys. He was a hunter enthusiast, but a passionate fisherman. He was especially skilled at fly fishing and took pride in tying his own flies; a talent he truly enjoyed sharing with others. A conservationist at heart, Jim was a dedicated member of the Anglers of the Au Sable, as well as many other Fly Fishing Conservations/Organizations and Gun Clubs. Jim cherished his time up north, whether staying at a favorite cabin, in his camper or travel trailer, or assisting his wife with the RV. He appreciated everything the area had to offer, from peaceful mornings on the water to evenings under the stars. Jim loved outdoor cooking and had all the camping equipment needed to prepare a delicious meal. In his earlier years he loved his boat and could often be found fishing from morning until night, finding peace and joy on the water. James was a proud member of the NRA and dedicated his time to teaching gun and hunter safety, as well as CPR. A skilled gunsmith and licensed gun dealer, he crafted his own ammunition, and dealt with black powder weapons of the Civil War Era. He participated in many Civil War Reenactments in and out of state. Jim was highly knowledgeable and experienced with black powder rifles, muzzle-loaders, and modern pistols. He mastered the art of competitive precision shooting. His ability as a sharpshooter earned him several trophies and medals over the years, a testament to his remarkable skill and dedication.

Also an experienced shortwave radio operator, Jim was a proud member of the South Lyon Area Amateur Radio Club. Jim developed a woodworking hobby to create designs that his wife Bonnie loved to paint. He had an impressive collection of tools, including a lathe, jigsaws, and drill presses, each carefully chosen to help him master his craft. Jim was always eager to learn more, building a vast knowledge about the things he loved to do. He also had a deep connection to the land, and in recent years enjoyed watching deer and wild turkey roam the property surrounding his home. As his family grew, Jim maintained large vegetable gardens with them where they grew potatoes, corn,pumpkins, rhubarb, tomatoes, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables. 

Jim was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who will be missed by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his hard work, his love of community, and the lasting impact he made on those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. James is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie Schrot; his children, Jaymie Schrot, Kevin Schrot, Carolyn (Jeff) Jensen, and Chris Schrot; 8 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings, Ann Audette, Nora Hainline, Jack Schrot, and his infant twin sister Mary Jane Schrot.

The visitation will be held Tuesday, March 25, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a Scripture Service at 7:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. The Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., in state beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Drive, Northville. Mr. Schrot will be laid to rest Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Heavenly Rest Catholic Cemetery, 5005 Howard Ave., Windsor, ON.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to The Arc of Northwest Wayne County, 7170 N. Haggerty Road, Canton, MI 48187 or Anglers of the Au Sable, PO Box 200, Grayling, MI 49738.