James A Sullivan III of Palmetto, FL died peacefully on Monday September 20, 2021 at the age of 80 years.  Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, he is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Gundel (Danni), his children James IV and Shannon (Tom), his sisters Mary and Julie (George), nephews David (Connie) and Tom, nieces Dawn (Chris), Meryl (Paul), and Aimee (Dwayne), and grandchildren Thomas, Peter, and Katherine.  He is remembered as a devoted pater familias of the Sullivan family, whose joyful spirit, genuine kindness, and keen intellect were beloved by us all.

Born in Chicago, IL, Jim was a tap dancer and musician in grade school, and attended St. Rita’s High School.  Over several summers he spent time with his Great-Uncle George and other family members on the Sullivan Ranch in Jordan, Montana, accumulating stories enough to regale several generations. Following graduation from St. Joseph’s college in Rensselaer, IN, he attended University of Detroit Law School.  Upon graduation, he joined the firm Vandeveer Garzia of Detroit, MI, one of the oldest law firms in Michigan, where he successfully practiced law for more than 30 years.  Following a move to Palmetto, FL in 2003, Jim became a tax advisor, course leader, and manager at H&R Block.   

Jim was a devoted family man, the engine behind many a gathering of family and friends. He was a loyal friend; Jimmy and Shannon knew his lifelong friends as the Uncles (Uncle Dave, Uncle Bob, Uncle Earl, and Mr. Sachs, to name a few). He was a loyal hometown sports team enthusiast, cheering on, over the years, the White Sox, Tigers, Lions, Rays, and Buccaneers. He coached basketball as a law student, and at various points enjoyed playing softball, tennis, and bowling; he was a lifelong golfer who loved the game.  Jim was a natural leader, and enjoyed the title of Past Exalted Ruler of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (he was also a Moose), and most recently serving on the Board of Directors of his association at Terra Ceia Bay.  He  served on the Board of Directors for the Suncoast Jazz Festival in Clearwater, FL for many years.  He loved to travel, enjoy good music and good friends, and to read a good book.  He will be missed by one and all.