James "Jim" Stutesman's Obituary
James “Jim” Stutesman, age 84, of Grand Haven went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, December 22, 2019 at Mercy Hospital in Muskegon. He was born August 10, 1935, in Ypsilanti, MI to Walter Leroy and Vadah Jennie (McWilliams) Stutesman. He married Ruth Elaine Benedict on August 15, 1959 in Grand Haven, she preceded him in death on March 15, 2016. Jim married Sally Vink on April 14, 2018.
Jim was a member of Grand Haven Community Baptist Church. He taught at Grand Haven Junior High School, and at the same time also owned Beacon Lock Service in Grand Haven for many years. Jim was known for his prolific use of puns, being a people person, was very caring, and charitable. He also loved animals.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sally Stutesman; two daughters, Elizabeth “Liz” (Phil) Manning and Susanna Stutesman; three grandchildren: Kayti (Zack) Jannenga, Nate Ashcraft, and Kaylee Manning; and three sisters: Esther (Bob) Howder, Mary Alice (Jerry) Payne, and Louise Barnard. He was preceded in death by his brother, Philip Stutesman.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 28, 2019, at Grand Haven Community Baptist Church with Rev. Ray Paget and Rev. Robert Porterfield officiating. Military honors will be accorded by The Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post # 28 Honor Guard. Friends may meet the family 4-7 p.m. Friday, December 27, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave, Grand Haven MI 49417. Interment will be in Lake Forest Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Grand Haven Community Baptist Church are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?
