James N. VanDongen's Obituary
James N. VanDongen, age 73, passed away unexpectedly Monday, September 11, 2017. He was born February 22, 1944 in Muskegon to Clarence “Barney” and Hilda (Jansen) VanDongen. Jim graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central and was a U.S. Navy Veteran. On March 14, 1970, he married the former Linda L. Anderson in Muskegon and she preceded him in death on February 18, 2008. In 2004, after 40 years of employment, he retired as a merchant seaman for the American Steamship Company. Jim loved riding his Harley Davidson trike and was proud to wear his 100,000-mile patch on his riding vest. He would also participate in many Patriot Guard rides. Jim enjoyed model trains and building scale models of the ships he used to work on. He was also a member of the Muskegon Eagles. SURVIVORS include 2 sons: Jon Robert (Bridget) VanDongen and their family Allison and Emma of Sanford, MI, Tony James (Angela) VanDongen and their son Jake of Canton, MI; sister, Sue Zoldak of Canton, MI; and a special Friend, Judy Rosenberg. A MEMORIAL SERVICE for Jim will be held 11:00 AM Friday, September 15, 2017 at The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St., (231) 798-1100. VISITATION with the family will be one hour prior to the service. MEMORIALS to the Patriot Guard Riders will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their On-line Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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