James LeRoy Tracey's Obituary
Mr. James LeRoy Tracey, age 83, passed away at his home in Norton Shores, Michigan on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on December 7, 1942 to James and Yvonne (Goffinett) Tracey. Jim attended Bradley University where he played football and wrestled. He was a veteran of the United States Army having served eight years in the National Guard. Jim married the love of his life, the former Sylvia Lundquist, on July 20, 1963 in Rockford, Illinois. They raised their family in Belvidere, Illinois, where they lived until moving to Norton Shores, Michigan, in 2018 to be closer to their grandsons. Jim owned and operated the brokerage firm J.L. Tracey and Associates for 35 years before retiring in 2007. Jim was involved in the Belvidere/Rockford community, serving as past president of the Northwest Community Center and as a member of the Lions Club and Zion Lutheran Church. Most recently, he was a member of Edgewood Lutheran Church in Fruitport. Jim enjoyed golfing and baking, and he took great pride in his children and grandchildren, enthusiastically supporting them in their activities and sports. He was well known within the Grand Valley football program for never missing a single game during the four years his son played. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Sylvia; their two children, Todd (Renee) Tracey and Carrie (Ken Sandy) Tracey; two grandsons, Maximilian Tracey and Caelan Tracey; brother, Dave (Kathy) Tracey; and sisters, Patricia Ankrom and Kitty-Jo (Terry) Allison. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a CELEBRATION OF HIS LIFE will be announced in the spring. You may sign his online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
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