Mr. Merrill James "Jim" Briggs' Obituary
Mr. Merrill James “Jim” Briggs, age 77, passed away Friday, January 29, 2010 in Muskegon. He was born in Dighton, MI on August 5, 1932 to Aaron and Ella (Baker) Briggs and has been a resident of Muskegon since 1956. Jim was employed by Muskegon Piston Ring for 33 years before his retirement and was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. He was a veteran of the Unites States Army having served in the Korean War. Jim was the #1 fan for his grandchildren’s activities. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan. Jim had a great sense of humor and was a practical joker. He loved Polka dancing, his part-time home in Arizona and spending time with his many family and friends. On June 26, 1954, Jim married the former Ann Pastotnik and she survives him along with 4 children, Kurt (Chris) Briggs, Marjorie (Craig) Bates, Marthina Sturgeon and Cherie (Rick) Karel; 10 grandchildren, Jenna (Matt) Blamer, Tina Briggs, Dana Briggs, Lindsey (Don) Ketner, Jory (Andy) Cook, Daniel Sturgeon, Ella Sturgeon, Justine Mooney, Jacquelyn Mooney and Bailey Karel; 2 great-grandchildren, Kiera and Henrik Ketner; 1 sister, Marilyn Gaskill; several nieces, nephews and extended family of in-laws that he enjoyed spending time with. He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 sisters, Marjorie Briggs and Jean Kepros; 1 brother, Dale Briggs and 3 grandchildren, Bryan Gregory, Jimmy Bates and Bradley Bates. The MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be celebrated 11AM Monday at St. Michael’s Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Thomas J. Brown presiding. VISITATION will be 2-4 & 6-8PM Sunday at
The Walburn Chapel
Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc.
1547 W. Sherman Blvd.
231-759-8565
with the Rosary prayed at 7:30PM. INTERMENT will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery with Military Rites under the auspices of the Muskegon County Council. MEMORIALS in Jim’s name may be made to Every Woman’s Place, Muskegon Rescue Mission or St. Michael’s Catholic Church. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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