James VanDeWege III

Jim passed away, Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. 

He was born April 23, 1938, in Grand Rapids, the son of James and Helena (Rienks) VanDeWege. Jim worked at General Motors until his retirement in 1990. He liked playing golf and after retirement worked at Eastern Hills Golf Course in Kalamazoo. 

Jim also enjoyed woodworking, doing puzzles, working in his yard, gardening, playing cards and dice and trips to the casino. Jim was an avid sports fan and liked watching college sports, especially U of M and following the Detroit Lions. More than anything he loved spending time with his family. In 1959 he married Virginia Brown. 

Surviving are his wife of 64 years; 5 children, Rick VanDeWege, Susie (Doug) Worden, Jimmy (Tina) VanDeWege, Jodie (Kurt) Darrow and Steve (Shelley Hinkle) VanDeWege; 7 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren with another due soon; siblings, Bob, Jerry, David and Bev along with several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Dougie and sister, Joyce. 

According to his wishes cremation has taken place. 

Friends may visit with Jim’s family from 6-8 PM, Monday, June 3, 2024, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego. 

Contributions in memory of Jim may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.