James Lawrence Faiella

James “Jim” Faiella, former owner of Peacock Ltd in Baldwin, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones. He was a devoted businessman, powersport enthusiast, and a cherished member of the Baldwin community whose impact will be felt for years to come.

Jim came to work in Lake County in 1978 and quickly became part of the Peacock Ltd family. His mentors taught him the business and provided him the opportunity to purchase the shop in 1988. “Big Jim” became synonymous with Peacock Ltd.

Located in Baldwin, the dealership was a trusted source for snowmobiles, ATVs, and watercraft, serving both local residents and visitors drawn to Northern Michigan’s trails, lakes, and natural beauty. Under Jim’s leadership, Peacock Ltd was known for exceptional service. Jim was an expert salesman, building relationships that kept customers coming back. Jim had a way of connecting with people—taking the time to understand their needs, sharing his knowledge, and ensuring they were ready for their next adventure. He believed in hard work and loyalty, values he demonstrated daily. Jim considered his Peacock managers and employees “family”, trusting them to run the business while he enjoyed early retirement.

Jim was instrumental in the advancement of the economic value of the ORV community to Lake County. Safety and education were also important to him. He collaborated with county commissioners and Lake County Sheriff, Rich Martin, to open county roads, connecting the trail network and enabling ORV’s access to businesses in downtown Baldwin, Irons, and the surrounding area. He partnered to organize and host ORV Training Workshops at Club 37, helping educate young riders on safe and responsible operation. He also played an active role in promoting safety through the development of highly visible yellow-and-black speed limit signage aimed at reducing ORV speeding. Jim contributed to several educational initiatives focused on ORV awareness and proper use, and he served with dedication on the ORV ordinance advisory committee.

Jim embraced challenges. He was a natural problem solver and wasn’t afraid to express his opinion to tell you there was a better way. He could see the big picture when it wasn’t obvious. He’d end a call—some would say abruptly—and move on to the next project. Jim was also a great storyteller. His detailed accounts, complete with a belly laugh and a big smile, left others sharing in his joy. His family and friends will sorely miss their go-to guy.

Whether in Michigan or Florida, Jim loved life on the water. He recruited family and friends for boating adventures and loved exposing them to the thrills of his “on-the-edge” expert boating skills. When not on his own boat, he and his wife, Sandy, often enjoyed retirement on beautiful cruise ships, sailing the world. He was an expert at finding great restaurants wherever they traveled and couldn’t wait to tell you about the exceptional meal he’d had. Jim had a generous heart and took great joy in spoiling those he loved, especially his son, nieces, nephews, and goddaughter, Melinda.

Jim and his son, Brad, shared a truly special bond. They talked business almost daily, with Jim serving as his biggest mentor—always eager to share his knowledge and support. He took great interest in everything Brad was building or racing, and every Sunday, they looked forward to spending hours watching NASCAR Cup racing.

Jim also shared a deeply meaningful connection with his nephew, Bo. They enjoyed cruises together, watching UFC fights, soccer, and, most of all, football. They often gambled on their favorites but with their coin toss game of heads or tails, Jim would keep tossing until Bo won. Jim offered guidance and encouragement, often telling Bo to “take the risk” and asking, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

Brad and Bo were Jim’s go-to guys. Mentoring them, supporting them, and staying closely connected brought him great joy. Jim meant the world to them, and in return, they meant the world to Jim.

Jim is survived by his wife, Sandy, children, Brad Chesney (Cindy), sisters, Carolyn Beck (Dennis), Kathryn Barry (Jim), nephews, Michael Gibson (Kim), Chris Barry (Jessi), Michael “Bo” Barry, his best man, Boots, and many other family and friends who will continue to honor his memory.

A Celebration of Life will be held in both Michigan and Florida to honor Jim’s life. The Michigan gathering will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Duane E. Dewey AMVETS Post 1988, 1959 W. 24th Street, Baldwin, MI. A second celebration will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Salt Rock Grill, 19325 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Kidney Fund at give.kidneyfund.org, or that acts of kindness be performed in Jim’s memory—something he would have appreciated most.