James A. Somers' Obituary
James Alexander Somers, age 93, passed away in Muskegon, MI, on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Jim was born in Muskegon on May 22, 1932, to Alex and Barbara (Aerts) Somers and remained a lifelong resident of the area. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He was baptized at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and was a member there for over 80 years. In his early years he served as an altar boy, and more recently he was proud to have helped with their restoration project. On May 23, 1959, he married the former Shirley Johnson, and the two of them spent 66 wonderful years building their family together. Jim loved spending time outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and working in his yard. He was a gifted woodworker and made many wooden toys for people over the years. He enjoyed many trips over the years with Shirley, visiting places like Alaska, Copper Harbor in the U.P., and many of the National Parks. He was a kind, generous man who was loving to all those around him.
Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Shirley Somers; two children: Mary (Ron) Homan and Theresa (Walter Johnson) Lee; daughter in-law, Beverly Somers; three grandchildren: Patricia Somers, Nicholas Somers, and Michael Homan; two great-grandchildren, Bobby and Brie Gamble; sister in-law, Shirley Somers; brother in-law, Michael Wine; special friend, Michelle Smith; and many other extended relatives and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Barbara Somers; son, Brian Somers; and three siblings: Tom Somers, Eloda (Bud) Maxey, and Barbara (James) Fraser.
A Memorial Mass will take place for Jim at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 239 W. Clay Ave, Muskegon, MI, 49440, with Memorial Visitation taking place an hour prior. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the church or to St. Luke’s Health Care Foundation – DBA Soddo Christian Hospital, PO Box 4465, Wheaton, IL, 60189. Arrangements have been entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave, Muskegon, MI, 49442.
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