Mr James Leonard Bird's Obituary
Mr. James Leonard Bird, age 82, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Thursday, August 7, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. He will be loved forever, and missed dearly, until we meet again. Jim was born January 2, 1932. He leaves his wife, Yvonne LeMieux Bird of 63 years who he married July 7, 1951; his son, Jim and Dee Bird; his daughter, Judy and Bill Novak; 5 grandchildren, Jeff and Jen Novak, Ben and Rachael Novak, Jason and Jen Bird, Steve and Liz Bird and Kevin Bird; 6 great-grandchildren, Brielle, Addisyn, Kyron and Kasyn, Trevor and Ellie; two brothers, Harold Bird of Muskegon and Richard (Joyce) Bird of Grand Rapids. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, George and Eleanor Bird; sister, Harriet and brother, Ted. Jim was Muskegon Heights High School Graduate and served his country in the U.S. Naval Reserve. He worked 35 years at Neway Equipment Company where he was General Service Manager, responsible for customer service, including field services and warranty claims. He traveled extensively on business trips to Europe, Egypt, Japan and Australia, retiring in July of 1990. Jim was on City Council for the City of Roosevelt Park for many years, serving as Mayor from 1994 to 1997. He loved his church, McGraft Memorial Congregational Church where he served as Elder and Deacon and on various committees, including general maintenance. He was the 5th Annual recipient of the Student Showcase Adult Award in recognition for his outstanding contribution of time and talent to the young people of West Michigan. Jim was also on the Tourism Coordinating Council, participated in Junior Achievement, served as President of Muskegon Junior Hockey, helped with Little League, Pony League and umpired. He also volunteered for nearly 25 years at Hackley Hospital. He loved working in his yard. Jim was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, golfing and his garden. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, August 12, 2014 at The Lee Chapel 6291 S. Harvey Street 231 798-1100 with Pastor Mark Nieuwsma officiating. VISITATION will be 5-8 Monday and one hour prior to the service (10-11 am). Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery. Those wishing to make a MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTION may donate to the building fund of McGraft Memorial Congregational Church, Muskegon Rescue Mission or Alzheimer’s Association.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?
