James R. Brentana's Obituary
James R. Brentana, age 90, passed away Saturday, June 24, 2023. He was born August 17, 1932 in Muskegon to Charles and Thelma (Ward) Brentana. Jim was a U.S. Army Veteran during the Korean War. He had also served two years in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Jim worked for Muskegon Piston Ring for 42 years prior to his retirement in 1992. On February 21, 1959, he married the former Reho Wahr in Muskegon, and she preceded him in death on February 16, 2017. Jim was a proud veteran and served his country and community in many capacities. He was a life member of V.F.W National Home, V.F.W. Camp Trotter, Michigan Past Commanders Club, Dad’s of F.S.V. Post 140, and past Commander of V.F.W. Post 446. Jim was also a member of the American Legion Post 9, V.F.W. Post 446 Honor Guard, and the Muskegon County Council Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard. In 1982, James was named Muskegon County Council Veteran of Foreign Wars member of the year for his service to the community. Jim enjoyed traveling and camping, especially in his renovated school bus called “Brentana’s Draggin Wagon”. He was also a great athlete and excelled in baseball. SURVIVORS include three children: Randy (Karyn) Lee of Traverse City, MI, Ted Lee of Sault St. Marie, MI, and Cindy (Verland) Fill of Newaygo, MI; 8 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; brother, Ronald (Dorothy) Brentana of Kentwood, MI; sister-in-law, Charlene Brentana of Muskegon; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Jean Charles of Muskegon. He was also preceded in death by two daughters: Vickie Brentana and Marlene Lee; grandson, Branden Lee; brother, Donald Brentana; sister and brother-in-law, Arlene (Henry) Herbst. SERVICES for Jim will be held 10:00 AM Thursday, June 29, 2023 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100. VISITATION will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place in Lakeside Cemetery with full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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