James Arthur Start's Obituary
Mr. James “Jim” Arthur Start, age 79, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2015 at Mercy Hospital. Jim was born December 1, 1935 to John and Jerine (Langeland) Start in Muskegon. On April 27, 1956 he married the former Barbara Lou Ruiter and she preceded him in death last year on September 22, 2014. He was a member of Grace Christian Reformed Church. He was a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, and was stationed on the East Coast and served on a search and rescue ship, the Acushnet, from 1954 – 1958. Jim was a self-employed carpet installer for over 50 years. He truly loved helping his children and grandchildren with various building projects. Traveling and camping with family and friends for many years, was a favorite time for him. Jim was a faithful volunteer for over 25 years, at Mississippi Christian Family Services in Rolling Fork, MS. He loved the clients and staff at the mission, and they in turn loved him. Jim will always be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor, but most of all, for his love of the Lord, and his family. He is survived by his children Cynthia (Michael) McCarthy of Spring Lake, Gregory (Margaret) Start, of Muskegon, Debbie Start, and son, Sam Kondracki of Grand Rapids; grandchildren, Ryan (Abbie Lyles) McCarthy, Jason (Ashley) McCarthy, Megan (Tyler Wiebenga) McCarthy, Kyle (Bridget) Start, James (Emily) Start and Erika (Drew Skocelas) Start; 2 great-grandchildren, Makenlie & Michael McCarthy; Sisters-in-law, Joyce Start of Fruitport and Shirley Start of Casnovia; many nieces and nephews, whom he thought the world of; along with his coffee buddies of many years. Jim was also preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Gerald, David and Clarence. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 2:00PM Sunday, May 3, 2015 at Calvin Christian Reformed Church, 937 Norton Ave., Norton Shores, MI 49441, with Pastors Ken Havert and Bernie Mulder, officiating. VISITATION will be 1-2:00PM Sunday, prior to the service at the church. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS may be made to Mississippi Christian Family Services, PO Box 487, Rolling Forks, MS 39159 or West Michigan Christian High School. Share memories of Jim or sign the guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com. Arrangements by The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc., 737 Apple Avenue, Muskegon, MI 49442 (231-726-5210).
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