James Dale "Jim" Doolittle's Obituary
James Dale “Jim” Doolittle, age 75, passed away Wednesday, March 15, 2023, in Lakeland, FL. He was born April 8, 1947, in Holland, MI to Daniel Albert and Pearl (VanKampen) Doolittle. He married Mary Lou Sutliff on October 3, 1969, in Spring Lake.
Jim served three years in the Army where he earned sharpshooting medals and was honorably discharged in 1971. He retired in 2009 from TGW Ermanco. Jim loved to golf, fish, hunt, travel, going to car shows in his 57 Bel-Air and most of all cherished time spent with family and friends.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Mary; his sister, Marcia (Wayne) Berghorst; his brother, Terry Doolittle; sister-in-law, Janet (Don) Bailey; brother-in-law, Jim (Cheryl) Sutliff; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-law, Robert (Reanna); and mother and father-in-law, Mervin, and Evelyn Sutliff.
A graveside service for Jim will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at Lakeshore Cemetery with military rites accorded Jim by the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post # 28 Honor Guard. Memorial contributions to Hospice of North Ottawa Community are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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?