James Raymond "Jim" Naperala's Obituary
James Raymond “Jim” Naperala, age 83, passed away Friday, April 24, 2026 at the Poppen Residence of Harbor Hospice. He was born on September 14, 1942 in Ludington, MI to Clement and Ursula Naperala and lived all of his life in the Muskegon area. Jim was a proud Crusader and graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central in the Class of 1960. Jim served 6 years with the Michigan Army National Guard. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering and Business degree from Western Michigan University and enjoyed a 40-year career as a Senior Quality Engineer for Howmet Corporation and GE Aviation retiring in 2005. Upon retiring, he worked 5 seasons for The Muskegon State Park as a member of their maintenance team. On December 11, 1970, he married Mary K. Hanks in Muskegon and she survives him. He was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, the Fruitport Eagles, the Grand Haven American Legion and the Muskegon Bowmen’s Club. Jim also volunteered as an assistant Scout Master for the Boy Scouts of America. Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Mary K. Naperala; 2 sons, Michael J. (Mickie) Naperala, Mark E. (Heidi) Naperala; 2 grandchildren, Logan (Maggie) Naperala, Alexis “Lexi” Naperala; 2 brothers, Richard (Cheryl) Naperala, Thomas Naperala; 3 sisters-in-law; JoEllen Minor, Betty Mayberry, Earlene Erb, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was expecting his first great grandchild to arrive in August. He was preceded in death by his parents; niece Amy; mother-in-law, Helen Hanks; father-in-law, Earl Hanks; and brother-in-law, Roger Erb. The Naperala’s would like to thank Dr. Todd Rexford, Val, and Becky for their continued care through this journey. The family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to Julie Stewart, the staff at Muskegon Harbor Hospice, and the caring and loving team of associates at the Leila and Cyrus Poppen House. Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, May 30, 2026 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey Street, Norton Shores, MI 49444, with Rev. Steve Geerling officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Memorial Contributions in lieu of flowers may be directed to the Leila and Cyrus Poppen House or to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church Building Fund. Sign the online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
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