Traverse City, Michigan - James "Jim" William Trnka, 80, passed away at Munson Medical Center on February 1, 2026. Jim was born on June 29, 1945 in Traverse City to the late Joseph and Helen (Dobson) Trnka.

After graduating from Traverse City Central High School Jim enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Following his basic training he volunteered to serve his country in Vietnam.

On February 20, 1976, he married Patricia DeVol. Jim and Pat built a home on the Old Mission Peninsula and welcomed four daughters.

Jim worked numerous jobs, including a weekend job at the Tackle Box before settling on a career as purchasing and inventory control management at a local plastics company. Later in life he worked for the Grand Traverse Band at Leelanau Sands. Jim was a longtime volunteer EMT and firefighter for Peninsula Township. He loved fishing, hunting, and spending time with his veteran's coffee group every week.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, brother Joseph ("Butch") Trnka), parents-in-law (Robert and Helen DeVol). He is survived by his wife Pat, daughters Jamie Trnka (Andrew Oppenheimer), Wendy Trnka-Warner (Chris Warner), Katherine Trnka (Casey Frantum), Carolyn Trnka, grandsons Lev Oppenheimer and Abel Warner, brother-in-law John DeVol and his wife Pam, and many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place and a graveside service with full military honors will take place in the spring.

Jim loved and looked forward to the yearly Tight Lines for Troops, a veterans fishing event in Manistee. Should you desire, please send memorial donations to:

 Mid-Michigan Honor Flight

5139 Green Acres Dr

Fredrick, MI 49733

 Tight Lines for Troops

PO Box 274

Manistee, MI 49660

Both organizations have requested that donations be denoted in Jim's memory.