Return to Station Listings
|
James Joseph Rivard
Born: 11/8/1960
Died: 2/1/2026
Age: 65
Community: Bay City, MI
|
James Joseph Rivard, 65, of Bay City, Michigan, passed away on February 1, 2026. Born on November 8, 1960, James was born and raised in Bay City—a place he loved deeply and proudly called home his entire life.
James was known for his bright blue eyes, warm smile, and a friendliness that made everyone feel welcome. He was the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to help someone, whether friend or stranger. He took his role as a father and husband seriously—always showing up, providing, supporting, and wanting better for his children than he ever had for himself.
To his family, James was a rock. Steady, dependable, and deeply loving. A welder and mechanic by trade, he was a true “Mr. Fix-It,” able to repair just about anything—even if it was completely “Havarded,” as we would tease. More than fixing things, James loved to teach these skills. A natural-born leader, he believed in helping others understand how things worked, shaping his children into capable, independent adults through patience and example.
Music was a constant in James’s life. There was always something playing—at home, in the car, while camping, everywhere. He could name the song, album, and artist without hesitation and would have easily dominated any music trivia game. He loved concerts and took great pride in sharing his love of music with his wife and children, finding comfort and connection through songs that stayed with him throughout his life.
James was also a lifelong Detroit Lions fan, faithfully watching every Sunday, cheering just as passionately through the tough seasons as the good ones. He loved explaining the game and sharing those moments with family—often answering the phone with, “Don’t tell me, don’t tell me—I recorded it!” Those conversations were a cherished part of his days.
He found peace outdoors, especially while camping at Bay City State Park. He could spend hours simply sitting by the water, content in its quiet beauty. Halloween camping was a favorite tradition, and James proudly displayed trophies from some of the earliest campground Halloween decorating contests—memories that brought him immense joy.
James is survived by his loving wife, Ann, with whom he shared over 25 years of marriage; his daughter, Alicia Faulk-Horton (Mark Horton), and son Zachary Rivard (Nicole Rivard); his grandchildren Madison Faulk, Grayson Rivard, and Makenna Rivard; and bonus grandchildren Alex Horton and June Horton. He is also survived by his brothers, Gary Rivard (Jon), Steve Rivard (Carol), Dean Rivard (Jackie), Terry Rivard (Aja), and Rick Rivard (Tammy), and his sister MaryJo Scott. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Mary Rivard.
James Joseph Rivard, 65, of Bay City, Michigan, passed away on February 1, 2026. Born on November 8, 1960, James was born and raised in Bay City—a place he loved deeply and proudly called home his entire life.
James was known for his bright blue eyes, warm smile, and a friendliness that made everyone feel welcome. He was the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to help someone, whether friend or stranger. He took his role as a father and husband seriously—always showing up, providing, supporting, and wanting better for his children than he ever had for himself.
To his family, James was a rock. Steady, dependable, and deeply loving. A welder and mechanic by trade, he was a true “Mr. Fix-It,” able to repair just about anything—even if it was completely “Havarded,” as we would tease. More than fixing things, James loved to teach these skills. A natural-born leader, he believed in helping others understand how things worked, shaping his children into capable, independent adults through patience and example.
Music was a constant in James’s life. There was always something playing—at home, in the car, while camping, everywhere. He could name the song, album, and artist without hesitation and would have easily dominated any music trivia game. He loved concerts and took great pride in sharing his love of music with his wife and children, finding comfort and connection through songs that stayed with him throughout his life.
James was also a lifelong Detroit Lions fan, faithfully watching every Sunday, cheering just as passionately through the tough seasons as the good ones. He loved explaining the game and sharing those moments with family—often answering the phone with, “Don’t tell me, don’t tell me—I recorded it!” Those conversations were a cherished part of his days.
He found peace outdoors, especially while camping at Bay City State Park. He could spend hours simply sitting by the water, content in its quiet beauty. Halloween camping was a favorite tradition, and James proudly displayed trophies from some of the earliest campground Halloween decorating contests—memories that brought him immense joy.
James is survived by his loving wife, Ann, with whom he shared over 25 years of marriage; his daughter, Alicia Faulk-Horton (Mark Horton), and son Zachary Rivard (Nicole Rivard); his grandchildren Madison Faulk, Grayson Rivard, and Makenna Rivard; and bonus grandchildren Alex Horton and June Horton. He is also survived by his brothers, Gary Rivard (Jon), Steve Rivard (Carol), Dean Rivard (Jackie), Terry Rivard (Aja), and Rick Rivard (Tammy), and his sister MaryJo Scott. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Mary Rivard.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 12 pm to 8 pm at the Bangor Township Hall. Food and Drinks will be provided.
The family would like to thank all the wonderful doctors and nurses who have cared for James over the past few years. A special thanks to Dr. Jacob Leroux, DO, and the staff of McLaren Bay Region 6 West, who were so incredibly kind in helping James in those last days.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alicia Faulk-Horton, to be gathered and donated in James’s honor to the Friends of Bay City State Park, reflecting his love for camping, the water, and the place that brought him so much peace. A memorial donation box will also be available at the celebration of life, and a collective donation will be made following the service.
James’s legacy of love, generosity, patience, and steadfast support will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.
The family would like to thank all the wonderful doctors and nurses who have cared for James over the past few years. A special thanks to Dr. Jacob Leroux, DO, and the staff of McLaren Bay Region 6 West, who were so incredibly kind in helping James in those last days.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alicia Faulk-Horton, to be gathered and donated in James’s honor to the Friends of Bay City State Park, reflecting his love for camping, the water, and the place that brought him so much peace. A memorial donation box will also be available at the celebration of life, and a collective donation will be made following the service.
James’s legacy of love, generosity, patience, and steadfast support will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan. |
Copyright © 2026 Direct Obits, LLC
| Visitation |
| Date: |
|
2/7/2026 |
| Time: |
|
12:00 PM |
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 12 pm to 8 pm at the Bangor Township Hall. Food and Drinks will be provided.
|
|
|
| Funeral Service |
| Date: |
|
2/7/2026 |
| Time: |
|
12:00 PM |
| |
| Location: |
|
Bangor Township Hall
3921 Wheeler Rd
Bay City, MI 48706Get a Map to this location...
|
| Official: |
|
|
|
Return to Station Listings
|
|
