"Get busy living"
Anyone who knew James Scarlett likely heard him say those three words and no one embodied them more than he did.
James was a visionary businessman, partnering with Chris Timmer to expand Scarlett Machinery beyond woodworking into aluminum, plastics, carbon fiber, and 3D printing. He thrived on collaboration, merging two industry associations into the newly formed Woodworking Industry Association (WIA) was a huge accomplishment.
A force of nature, James truly lived! A pivotal moment came during his senior year at Michigan Tech when a skiing accident left him with broken vertebrae just millimeters from paralysis. After ten weeks of forced stillness, he emerged with an even greater zest for life.
James tackled challenges with relentless energy, whether in business, skiing the slopes, racing sailboats or riding motorcycles. Buying the family business from his father Jim Scarlett was a leap of faith. While the early years were tough, he and Chris built Scarlett Machinery into a thriving enterprise.
James was a man of few words, always present and focused as he listened. When he spoke, his words mattered. His influence extended beyond business; he inspired friends, colleagues and most importantly his family to dream big and never settle.
His generosity reached beyond those he knew. He supported the Adaptive Ski Association of West Michigan, helping individuals with disabilities gain confidence and independence. He lived by loyalty, honor, and friendship, leaving a lasting mark on the Young Presidents’ Organization of West Michigan and every circle he graced.
On a recent YPO retreat, friends climbing a mountain agreed that if James had been there, he would have pushed them to the summit. He believed in constantly pushing limits, mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Above all, James was a devoted husband to Amanda and a loving father to Tucker and Quinlan. His family was his greatest source of pride and joy, and he instilled in them his boundless energy, resilience and passion for life. In his home office this simple mantra framed his life:
“Today is a good day to have a great day. To smile more. Worry less. To be the best version of you. To do what makes you happy. To be positive and regret nothing. To be humble and work hard. Laugh, love, live. Follow your dreams. Believe in yourself. Be awesome.”
