James R. Weeks

James R Weeks A Kalamazoo pioneer in pharmaceutical research at the Upjohn Company passed away Thursday, October 28, 2010. Dr. James R. Weeks discovered a technique for self injection of drugs by rats for addiction research. He was among the first in the world to discover prostaglandins. He served his country during World War II in New Caledonia, supervising the chemical warfare unit. After the atomic bomb in Japan, he was among the first in the city, prepared to neutralize contaminated sites. Jim was well known for his love of the outdoors through his winter and summer backpacking adventures with family and friends. He spent many hours perfecting methods to stay warm while living in below zero conditions in Canada. His family has many memories of canoe trips and stories told around the campfire at his beloved cabin on the AuSable River. Dr. Weeks is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Ellen, son, Dr. James (Sue) Weeks, daughters, Diane (Ron) Karlis, Linda (Phill Orth) Weeks, grandchildren, Dr. Jesse (Kim)Rinehart, Kyle (Eric) Weisholtz (Rinehart), Tyler Weeks, Darcy Martin (Weeks), Dr. Katrina Kreft , James Kreft and 7 great grandchildren. The family extends appreciation to the Upjohn Community Care Center and In House Hospice for their assistance. Memorials may be directed to the Upper AuSable Preservation Association, P.O. Box 495, Alpena, MI 49707 or The Nature Conservancy. Friends may share a memory online at: www.avinkcremation.com. A private memorial service is planned.