James Corgan's Obituary
James (Jim) Corgan passed away September 14, 2008 surrounded by family. Jim was born September 22, 1930 in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Spending his childhood in the Upper Peninsula imbued him with a lifelong love and respect for nature, which he shared with his family. Jim was happiest riverside by a campfire with his best friend and wife, Frances. Jim and Fran brought up their twelve children hiking into waterfalls, camping, canoeing, fishing, hunting, swimming, and roasting marshmallows.
Jim’s life-long career in the auto industry started in auto racing where he was known by his moniker, “Gentleman Jim”. Later, Jim was general manager and service manager at a number of dealerships in West Michigan. He was also owner/operator of several service stations and Corgan Garage in Muskegon.
Jim’s family was his life and among them he was known as a great storyteller, gentle patriarch, huggable grandpa, and generous spirit. An avid reader and student of history, Jim passed on his love of learning to his children. Jim’s family will dearly miss his wry-wit, wisdom, devotion, and charitable heart.
Jim is survived by his children Mary (Jim Fisher) Corgan, Anne Corgan, Jean (Mark) Jannenga, Jill Bulson, Lynn (Michael Roth) Corgan, Rex (Sheri) Corgan, Lori (Jerry) Pearson, Lisa (Rich) VanderLee, Ted (Jennifer) Corgan, Amy (Steven) Blodgett, Gail (Dennis) Head, and Kim (Allen) Corgan-Hatfield; 29 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; special family friend, Joann Kuschel, siblings E. Katherine Maitner, Mary Putman, David Corgan, and Michael Corgan. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Frances (Gardner) Corgan, parents Esther and Andy Corgan, siblings Donald Corgan, Kathleen Miller, and Les Corgan.
The funeral liturgy will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, 9/20/2008 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Rev. Leonard Sudlik as celebrant. Friends may meet with the family at the church following the service. Memorials to Harbor Hospice are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their on line guest book at www.vbkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by VanZantwick Bartels Kammeraad Funeral Home of Spring Lake.
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