James Jepkema

James "Jim" Jepkema, age 74, of Kalamazooo, MI passed away Friday, October 7, 2016. Jim was born in Kalamazoo on June 23, 1942 to the late Fred and Gertrude (VanBruggen) Jepkema. He was a skilled carpenter and especially enjoyed building doghouses, for which he acquired the nickname "Doghouse Jim". Jim's family and friends were always at the center of his world. He is survived by his son, Trevor (Michele) Jepkema; granddaughter, Riley; siblings, Fred (Joan) Jepkema, Evelyn Knibbe, Don Jepkema, Shirley Turcott, Martin (Marsha) Jepkema and Deb (Jim) Smit; ex-wife and friend, Gay Jepkema and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his step-mom, Martha Jepkema and in-laws, Henry Knibbe and Marilyn Jepkema. A committal service will be held in the chapel at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South, 3941 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008, on Friday, October 14, 2016 at 11:00 AM. To honor Doghouse Jim's memory the family suggest partaking in a donut at Sweetwater's Donut Mill or making a memorial contribution to a charity of one's choice. Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home