James "Jim" Porenta's Obituary
James “Jim” Porenta, age 80, of Grand Haven, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026. He was born February 24, 1946, in Grand Haven to Joseph and Alice (Engle) Porenta. On April 24, 1982, he married Valerie Ernst, and together they built a life rooted in family, service, and community.
Jim was a graduate of Grand Haven High School and a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Enterprise, a chapter of his life he held in deep respect and gratitude and one that shaped his enduring commitment to fellow veterans.
That commitment was most visible through his years of service at the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post 28, where Jim was not just a member, but a steady presence and leader. He had the honor of serving as the Post’s 100th Commander, as Sergeant at Arms, and as a dedicated member of the Building and Grounds Committee, helping ensure the Legion remained a welcoming and well‑kept home for veterans. Jim could often be found helping with burger nights—doing whatever job needed doing, including collecting cash—or collecting holiday gifts for the Goodfellows, where his deep roots in Grand Haven meant he knew nearly every stop and story along the way. It was especially meaningful to him to serve with the American Legion Honor Guard, where he helped provide hundreds of veterans with a dignified and honorable final tribute.
In addition to the American Legion, Jim was also a longtime member and supporter of VFW Post 2326, where he valued the camaraderie, service, and shared commitment to honoring those who served.
Jim retired in 2008 from the family business, Porenta’s Grand Haven Furniture. Jim loved the Grand Haven community, and gave back in numerous ways, most recently serving on the board of Park Place Community Center. He was an avid sailor and enjoyed riding his motorcycle, camping, fishing, learning about history, and caring for his dogs. Above all else, Jim loved his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 44 years, Valerie; his son, Joseph (Shannon) Porenta; five grandchildren, Ryan, Corinne, Colin, Maureen, and Simon; sisters, Virginia (Mike) Nielsen and Judith Porenta; and brother‑in‑law, Mike (Jan) Ernst. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Alice Porenta.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 23, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church. Visitation will take place from 3:00 to 5:00 PM on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Interment will follow at Lake Forest Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post 28 – Honor Guard. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services
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