James J. "Jim" Richards' Obituary
James J. “Jim” Richards, age 72, met his Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 29, 2021. He was born on September 21, 1948 to Ernest and Sena (Bytwerk) Richards in Muskegon, MI and has lived there most of his life. He was a proud veteran, serving his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War. On September 17, 1994, Jim married the love of his life, the former Linda McCracken at their home in Hesperia. Together they cherished 26 years of marriage full of love, laughter and adventure. Jim was a driven man with a strong will to succeed. His life career was dedicated as an entrepreneur, starting various businesses, such as Jim’s Quick Lube & Auto Repair. He loved seeking out new adventures and truly enjoyed being on the water boating or being outdoors while camping. He was also an avid golfer and had a passion for motorcycles and racing. Jim was known to be a fun-loving, yet feisty spirited man who enjoyed having a goodtime. Above all things, he loved his family and friends. He will always be remembered for his vivacious and larger than life personality. He will truly be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Richards; 4 children, Angela Lewis, James C. (Melissa Sharlow) Richards, Erin (Bill) Schmitz and Ashley (Jesse) Blekking; 7 grandchildren, Paige, Layn, Addison, Rileigh, Isaac, Cruz and Caleb; brother, Ernest Richards; 2 sisters, Marjorie Wright and Sandy Kitchka; niece Shanda; nephew, Mathew; many nieces and nephews; and numerous friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, William Richards. A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. A visitation with the family will be held one-hour prior. Memorial contributions in Jim’s honor can be made directly to the Wounded Warrior Project or Hope Project. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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