James Frederick Panyard's Obituary
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 independence. Born on January 19, 1957, Jim lived a life defined by devotion to family, loyalty to lifelong friends, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that made his days full.
James was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Alfred Panyard Jr. He is survived by his children Kevin Panyard, Colleen Copley and her husband Jacob, and Kasey Panyard and his fiancé Rachael Forsberg; his mother Annette Jo Panyard; and his sisters Shelley Haaker Flournoy and her husband Brett Flournoy, Beth DeKuiper and her husband Cal, Kathy Engstrom and her husband Per. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Mason and Wyatt Copley, along with several cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Jim had a rewarding 20 year career with Gerber Products that took him from Fremont Michigan to Rzeszow Poland and Asheville North Carolina, he also enjoyed coaching tennis for Spring Lake Schools for several years. He found deep joy in the friendships that shaped his life from early childhood to his last few years in Fruitport —sharing stories and laughter with his WMU Tennis buddies aka The Bronco Boys, spending long days golfing, hunting, gardening, or fishing, and enjoying the camaraderie of friends at Harbour Towne Yacht Club. His dogs were constant companions throughout his life, each one special in their own way, and Ellie—his loyal “girlfriend”—held a particularly dear place in his heart.
A visitation will be held at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, on Sunday, June 28th, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the family center.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence – Harbor Hospice in Muskegon.
Arrangements have been entrusted to theThe Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at https://sytsemafh.com.
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