Birth date: Apr 4, 1924 Death date: May 22, 2014
James Francis de Spelder, age 90, of Grand Haven passed away Thursday, May 22, 2014, at Heartwood Lodge. He was born April 4, 1924, in Grand Rapids to James E. and Frances (Becker) de Spelder. He was married to Angie Jean Resner o Read Obituary
I have fond memories of Jim and his wife. We were classmates at Hope and since we were both married we hung out a lot together. I lived on Black Lake and I think Jim did too. Also we were both veterans and a Little older than the other students. Jim was a great guy! Tom McCloud 7821 Nw Roanridger Road Apt B Kansas City Mo 64151
Dick,
Sorry to hear about your father. It never is easy but it sounds like he lived a full life at 90 years of age. I'm sure he left a great legacy and there are fond memories to support you. Along with our CBWS colleagues we all send our condolences and best wishes.
Jack Bouman
The 1st time I meant Chaplain James deSpelder was 12 years ago on Veterans Day at the Eternal flame in Grand Haven. Jim and 1st Vice Commander Ray Ribbink was in charge of the program at the Flame. Mr. deSpelder saw me with one of my USMC hats on and came over and introduced himself to my wife and me.
Mr. deSpelder invited us to the Legion where he started talking to me about joining the Legion. Next thing I know I was signed up and became a member in December.
Mr. deSpelder and Commander Bob Hendrickson talked to me about helping to set up the New Rifle Team for funerals and Color Guard for post meetings.
Mr. deSpelder and Mr. Hendrickson worked with me at the Rifle Range in Grand Haven and we trained our “Rifle Team”. This is the new team that we now have in place that goes to all the funerals that we are invited to.
Mr. deSpelder’s fortitude and loyalty to make our Rifle Team, Color Guard and Honor Guard the best that it is today because of his knowledge of the military and how our group needed to be ran as a “Team”.
God Bless you Past Chaplain James deSpelder.
Semper Fi
David L. MacKellar
Veterans Helping Veterans and their family's
Grand Haven, Mi. American Legion
Charles A. Conklin Post #28
Past Commander (2010-2011)
Rifle Team Leader & Historian
David L. MacKellar "Mack"
616-402-2206 e-mail mackeda1@aol.com
I have had to pleasure of sharing some special moments with Jim and now he is at peace. He is on his way to his spiritual home.
