Enterprising engineer leaves impressive legacy

James Dirkes '50 parlayed his education in architectural engineering into an entrepreneurial enterprise that provided climate control to some of the nation's largest industrial complexes. He often recalled his days on the McNichols campus and the important things he learned that impacted his life going forward.

His success enabled him to give back to the University that gave him a start. Funds from a bequest were used to help renovate the Chemistry Building and several other campus projects.

After graduating from U of D, Dirkes served in the U.S. Navy. He worked for Fisher Body in Detroit and later in Grand Rapids. He left the automaker to join a roofing and ventilating company in Grand Rapids. After gaining experience and knowledge of the market, he formed his own sheet metal contracting business in 1961.

As an enterprising engineer, he discovered that large industrial plants and complexes needed an environmentally safe method to provide climate control for their facilities. His company pursued that market by specializing in industrial heating and ventilation, and industrial finishing equipment. As founder and CEO of Rapid Engineering in Comstock Park, he managed the company's growth and reputation as a leader in the industry. Clients included Ford Motor Company and other large industrial firms in the United States and abroad.

Aside from running a business, he enjoyed golfing and making handy devices in his home workshop for the benefit of his household. He died in 2006 in Naples, Fla., survived by wife Josie, four children, nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. His legacy includes his family, business and the bequest to Detroit Mercy, which was delivered in 2010.