James “Jim” Bica

James Michael Bica, age 80 of Monroe, passed away Tuesday, January 17, 2023.

Born March 4, 1942 in Detroit, James “Jim” was the son of Michael and Mary (Pollaccia) Bica. He attended grade school at Epiphany Catholic Grade School in Detroit, was a 1960 Graduate of McKenzie High School and attended the University of Michigan Dearborn. Jim married the love of his life, Bonnie McDowell, on August 1, 1964. Sadly she preceded him in death March 5, 2022.

Jim worked as a Terminal Manager for Consolidated Freightways for many years. He also helped open Beek’s Bar and Grille in 1994 with his family. Jim was a member of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, past president of Monroe Jaycees, and a member of various Car Clubs. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, and hanging with his friends at Beek’s drinking a Pepsi, but his most treasured times were those spent with his family especially watching his grandchildren’s sports, recitals and concerts.

Jim leaves to cherish his memory his children: Lisa (Ken) Kemmerling, James (Darcy) Bica II and Christopher (Sara) Bica; seven grandchildren: Rose, Grace, Brooke, Maia, Mara, Blayne and Bennett; a brother Michael Bica and in laws; Bernice “Bunny” Bica, Barbara Hewison, Thomas (Nora) McDowell and James (Brenda) McDowell; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to his parents and wife he was preceded in death by two siblings: William Bica and Josephine Leabo and his in laws: Teresa Bica, Judy Bica, Pete Leabo, Rich Hewison, Karen Purcell and Michael Purcell.

The Bica would like to thank the staff of Wellspring Lutheran Services Rehab for the exceptional care of Jim.

Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or the National Kidney Foundation.