Lester W. James

Lester W. James of Kalamazoo, MI., passed away, Monday, November 20, 2023, in Ionia. He was born April 24, 1943 in Kalamazoo the son of Marion and Ella (Swainston) James. For 30 years Lester worked for General Motors until his retirement in the late 90's. As a young man he enjoyed square dancing and was a 4-H leader for his children. He also enjoyed camping, traveling, gardening and woodworking. On October 12, 1963 he married Hazel Jean Parker who passed away in 2013. Surviving are his children, Kathy (Kevin) Sparks, Bill (Sally) James, Russ (Sheri) James and Dennis (Jennifer) James; grandchildren, Jackie and Faith Sparks, Christopher and Kaylee James, Eric (Katie), Kyle and Luke James, Aaron Radcliffe, Samantha James and Brendan Horn; great-grandchildren, Violet and Olive James and Lincoln and Raegan Knight; siblings, Norma VanderPloeg, Carol (Dick) Schiedel and Roy (Janet) James; many nieces and nephews and special friend Betty. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Sam VanderPloeg. According to his wishes cremation has taken place. Friends may visit with Lester's family starting at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego, until the time of the memorial service at 11:30 A.M., with Pastor Jason Zimmer officiating. Burial of ashes will take place at West Cooper Cemetery at a later time. Contributions in memory of Lester may be made to Allegan County 4-H. Messages of condolence may be posted at WinkelFuneralHome.com.