James Lear

James Allan Lear, devoted Deputy with the Van Buren County Sheriffs Department, went home to the Lord Friday, December 10, 2021. James was a resident of Galesburg, where he resided with his loving wife, Tricia and their four children. He was born August 15, 1978 in Chicago, to Linda Kravets and James Michael Lear. James was a graduate of Portage Central High School. He then went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree from Davenport University. James enlisted in the U.S. Army where he was based at Fort Bragg in North Carolina in Special Forces and Psychological Operations Specialist, sent on many missions, with honorable discharge. While Fort Bragg, James met his soul mate, Tricia Caldwell. Over the course of his military service, he learned many languages. James accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized into the family God in 2003. Following his return from the Army, James and Tricia settled in Galesburg, Michigan. He then attended the police academy in Battle Creek and went on to service as a Deputy in Van Buren County. James proudly served his God, his country and his family. James went to work and back home, where he was devoted to his loving family. He enjoyed working his land, plantig fruit trees, creating paths in the woods for his children. Laid down roots at his home, where he cultivated fruit trees, planted gardens, pulled sleds, entertained family. Love to cook, built forts, road his lawnmower for hours enjoying the outside, was a great artist. On February 1, 2008, James married Tricia (Caldwell) Lear who survives. He is also survived by his three sons, Caleb Lear, Toby Lear and Erich Lear; one daughter, Kaileigh Lear; two brothers, Matt (Sabrina) Lear and Tim (Shelby) Powers; along with many nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles. James was preceded in death by his brother, Shane Lear, paternal grandparents, Opal (A.D.) Lear, and his maternal grandparents, Albert Kravets and Pauline Smith. Family and friends will visit Tuesday, December 21, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at RedArrow Ministries 31133 Red Arrow Highway, Paw Paw. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at RedArrow Ministries with Rev. G. Ben Bowater IV officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta. As James was a very colorful person, those in attendance are encouraged to wear bright colors to honor James. Please visit www.adamspawpaw.com where you can share a memory, sign the online tribute wall and obtain the link to watch the funeral service livestream.