James Boven

James M. Boven, 81 of Portage, passed away peacefully at Rose Arbor on December 25, 2025. He was born on August 9, 1944, in Kalamazoo, the son of John and Betty (Kelley) Boven.

After high school, Jim dutifully served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War in the 3rd Battalion 16th Field Artillery. He returned home upon his honorable discharge in 1968 and continued to collect eagle themed pieces his entire life, a reflection of his deep rooted patriotism.

On May 1, 1969, Jim married his beloved Aletha Veldt and they were blessed with 47 years together until her passing in 2016.

Jim enjoyed working outside, especially in his own yard. He and Aletha also loved to travel, they took many trips out west, to Hawaii and annual trips to Gatlinburg, TN. His faith in Jesus Christ played a significant role in his life. He was a member of Haven Reformed Church and then later Southridge Church for many years. He proudly served as a Deacon, assisted with youth groups, and even taught Sunday School alongside his wife, Aletha. Jim and his wife were also regular supporters of church missions. As a member of Southridge he was a faithful participant in the church's men's group, whose weekly meetings he looked forward to.

Jim is survived by his granddaughters Brieanne Maya and Devone Dinse, a great granddaughter Anyah Dinse, and sister Cynthia Warren as well as her daughter. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Betty, wife Aletha, and their daughter Michelle Boven.

Funeral services will be held for Jim on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Langeland Family Funeral Home 411 East Centre Ave. Portage, MI 49002. Friends are welcome to greet the family from 10 AM to 11 AM when the funeral service will begin, there will be more visiting time following the funeral before a graveside service at Fort Custer National Cemetery at 1 PM.

Please visit Jim's memorial webpage to share memories and condolences with his family at https://www.Langelands.com