James VanWyk

James M. VanWyk, 68, of Almena, passed away January 25, 2017 at his home. He was born December 15, 1948 in Paw Paw, the son of the late William and Lettie (Farnsworth) Van Wyk.  Jim was a 1967 graduate of Paw Paw High School and 1969 granduate from Sam's Technical Institute in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Following school, Jim worked in telephone communications for many years, retiring in 2010. He was a member of Almena United Methodist Church, the National Museum of the US Air Force, was a coach for Challenger Little League and enjoyed putzing around his property and working with the tractor on the fence line.

On May 1, 2010 in Almena, Jim was united in marriage to Barbara Alden-VanWyk who survives.  Also surviving are three children, Tim (Roxanne Robinson) of Oshtemo, Derek (Kelly) VanWyk of Paw Paw and Steven VanWyk of Gobles; two grandchildren, Garrett VanWyk and Landyn VanWyk; a sister Jackie Wiscombe of Beaufort, SC, along with many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Clayton VanWyk, who remains missing from his service in Korea, and a sister, Jean Smothers.

A memorial service will be held Friday, February 3, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at Almena United Methodist Church with Pastor Donna Keyte officiating. A luncheon will follow at church. He will be laid to rest at Almena Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to Special Olympics Area 17 or Almena United Methodist Church