James “Jim” was born May 10, 1941 in St. Clair, Michigan. He was the son of William Keith and Gwendolyn Henrietta (White) Gilkey. Jim earned his Chemical Engineering Degree from the University of Michigan and his Master’s in Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University. Throughout his career as a chemical engineer, he worked in several fields ranging from plastics to automotive. Jim was an active and enthusiastic volunteer at the Yankee Air Museum and a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
He is survived by his wife, Janet Kay (Anderson) Gilkey of Saline; his twin brother, Robert Kenneth Gilkey, and his wife, Carole Beasdale, of St. Clair; sister-in-law, Carol Rae Anderson; brother-in-law. Robert James Anderson; and several nieces and nephews and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service is pending.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Yankee Air Museum, 47884 D Street, Belleville, MI 48111.