Birth date: Jan 19, 1957 Death date: Apr 9, 2026
James “Jim” Frederick Panyard, age 69, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, surrounded by family. Jim had fearlessly battled cancer and health issues for the last 17 years, never giving into pain and relentlessly guarding his Read Obituary
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Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services - The Lee Chapel
6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores MI 49444
Jim and I were best buds as kids. We built forts together, caught frogs in the neighborhood creek, rode our bikes, played army in the sand pits, on and on. He had the largest set of army men, tanks, etc. I had ever seen! Good times at Gerber as well. So sorry to hear of his passing. He was truly a kind soul.
Mark Vanderlaan
Memories from our youth are precious, cherished and never forgotten! The fun times we had growing up in Fremont, and the group of friends we all shared is something I will always remember. Those of course were replaced with the memories you made as a father, brother and son. I know how proud you were of Kevin, Colleen and Kasey.
I am so grateful that after many years of not seeing you, we were able to meet several times over the years on the golf course or grab something to eat in Muskegon. I was hoping to get a chance to do that with you again this year. I will have you in my mind when trying to sink that 20-footer for Birdie. Be in Peace my friend!
The defensive line had me on the run the entire game. I rolled left to try and buy some time. I saw Jim streaking down the far side line. I planted and threw the ball as far as I could. Their was no way. I led him too far. He ran so fast. He crossed the goal line and left the ground and completely extended himself. He caught the pass on his finger tips. It was the most incredible catch I'd ever seen. Such an amazing athlete. Fremont hadn't beaten Reeths Puffer in football in many years. We won that game. I'll never forget that catch nor will I ever forget my great friend Jimbo.❤️🙏
My first and longest friend. Jim, just 13 months older was my idol and I spent most of my young life tagging along and trying to do everything you could do. Thanks for being such a kind big brother.
