James H. Shashaguay

James H. Shashaguay, age 73, of Saugatuck, passed away Sunday, January 15, 2023.

Jim was born in Holland, Michigan to John and Eloise Shashaguay on May 11, 1949. He attended Holland Public Schools and graduated from Holland High School in 1967. After graduation he attended Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University and obtained his pilot’s license. He flew float planes in Canada as a bush pilot for several years before joining the United States Army. Jim’s specialty was in explosives. He was a member of the elite Explosive Ordinance Detachment “E.O.D.” for two years. His claim to fame while in the service was enjoying a beer with Astronaut Buzz Aldrin in Palm Springs, California. Soon after serving his country faithfully Jim returned home to work in the family business, Shag Shop Incorporated. Jim worked in the shop until his death. He met the love of his life, Mrs. Jan Shashaguay, on a blind date in Daytona Beach, Florida. Together they enjoyed 52 wonderful years of marriage. He enjoyed playing golf, horse shoes and spending time with his family. Jim was also an avid Nascar fan and Kyle Busch was his driver. Jim was a lifelong fabricator and he always took great pride in his work. Some of his well-known projects were the local paddle wheel boats in Saugatuck which Shag Shop produced. The most recent was the “Star of Saugatuck”. Mr. Shashaguay was a proud member and Elder of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi.

Mr. Shashaguay is survived by his loving wife, Jan A. Shashaguay; sons, Jeffrey (Naomi) Shashaguay, James (Gina) Shashaguay; grandchildren, James T Shashaguay, Jeffrey E Shashaguay, Jadin A Reed, Mia K Reed, Christina M Rastall; great-grandson, Dean C. Rastal; sister, Diane (Jerry) Vander Molen; brother & sister in-law, Lyn and Real Desautels.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John & Eloise; siblings, Jon F (Lynn) Shashaguay and Jo Ann (George) Miles.

A celebration of life will take place in May.

Funeral arrangements are under the auspices of the Saugatuck Chapel.