James Arthur Fink

James Arthur Fink, 88, of Birmingham, Alabama passed away peacefully at home on November 29, 2023.  Jim is survived by his wife of sixty-four years Norma Morucci Fink, his four children Lisa Weaver (Roy) of Birmingham, AL, Jim Fink of Charlotte, NC, Jeff Fink (Farley) of Anniston, AL, and Cathleen Hudson (Ben) of Birmingham, AL; his thirteen grandchildren Cathryn Weaver Brady (Joe), Clair Weaver Hanson (John), Anne Margaret Weaver Smith (Slade), John Weaver, Alex Fink, Jack Fink, Billy Fink, Grace Fink Brown, Adele Fink, Camille Fink, Ben Hudson (Sara), Claudia Hudson Puhnaty (Justin), Lucy Hudson, fourteen great grandchildren, and his brother Jack Fink (Connie) of Danville, IL.

He was born in Clinton, Iowa on November 15, 1935 to Katherine Louise Hoosack and Jack Raymond Fink.  He was raised in Clinton and graduated from Clinton High School.  He then attended the University of Notre Dame and was a faithful and enthusiastic alumnus throughout his life.  

Jim started his career with Republic Steel Corporation in Youngstown, Ohio where he met and married the love of his life on May 16, 1959.  They were transferred numerous times to accommodate his career with Republic Steel until settling in Gadsden, Alabama where he served as plant manager and raised their family.  He served in numerous executive roles during the final season of his career before retiring and moving to Birmingham.  

His greatest joys in life were his family and his faith.  He was known as Poppie to his grandchildren.  He loved to share stories of his childhood that would often grow in exaggeration as the years passed, his enthusiasm for Notre Dame, and giving his humorous and thoughtful perspectives on life.  

Sunday lunches were always a time to gather together as a family and he ensured there was more than enough of his contribution to the meal.  It was usually over seasoned but always plenty to spare.

For over ten years he sent a Bible verse daily to his children and grandchildren to encourage them in their faith, remind them of his love for them and include birthday or anniversary wishes.  

He had a passion for hunting and fishing throughout his life because it was time spent with family and friends.  He was always willing to coordinate or be a guest of a hunting or fishing trip.

Jim had a daily routine of walking two of his favorite companions, their dogs Annabelle and Betsy.  Always wearing Notre Dame apparel, carrying his phone with the fight song as the ringtone, it was his opportunity to socialize with his neighbors and ensure his dogs got their exercise for the day.  

His life was marked by gratitude for all the good things he was able to enjoy throughout his life.  Even in the most difficult times, because of his faith, he would remind or encourage us to focus on the Lord’s goodness.  He will be greatly missed but his legacy will be carried out through those he loved and loved him.

In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to the charity of your choice.