James Lee Delbridge

DELBRIDGE, James Lee II Nov. 10, 1953 - Sept. 20, 2008 Loving husband, father, brother, and friend left our world suddenly-doing what was his passion...riding his bike. Jim was born in Kalamazoo, MI to James and Wilma Alger Delbridge-who preceded him in death. Jim is survived by the love of his life...his soulmate...Charlene Ann Ward Delbridge. Jim and Char began their journey together in 1969 on a blind date...later to marry in 1972. In August of 1974 along came their daughter Heather May. Michael and Heather Delbridge DeAnda gave Jim "Papa" three grandchildren...Kaylee, Amber, Michael II-whom he dearly loved and adored. Also surviving are his sisters Hazel Randy Rogers, and Dena Shawn O'Flynn. In-laws Richard and Dorothy Ward of Newberry MI. Jim was a "big brother" to brother-in-law David Ward and best friend to brother-in-law Rick Ward, and sister-in-law Linda Bannister. Special friends Rob Brown -"pops", and Larry Nufer. Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends. Everybody who knew Jim will always remember his bright smile that he always wore and his joyful laugh. You could always count on Jim to keep in touch-he made his rounds faithfully visiting family and friends on his bike. Jim was one of the original members of the Old Iron Motorcycle Club. He loved the freedom he felt riding with the wind against his skin--and telling stories of all the miles he put on his bike. Jim loved anything that could go fast..he was and avid NASCAR fan...when there's a race on you could guarantee he'd be watching--if he wasn't out on his bike...Jim also enjoyed music...he would hang out in the barn tinkering around with his bike, and tractors..."jammin" to a wide variety of tunes. Jim and Char built their dream home nine years ago on their property in Delton, MI. They spent a lot of time outside enjoying the land and nature together....along with Sammy their beloved golden retriever. Jim attended the Old Kalamazoo Central High and later Kalamazoo Valley Community College. He was a journeyman tool and die maker...working for Kalamazoo Stamping and Die Tower Automotive for 28 years. He currently worked for Vicking Corporation in Hastings MI. Jim was a hard worker, he took much pride in everything and anything he did. All are welcome to join together for a celebration of Jim's life, Thursday, September 25, 2008 at 4:30 PM at Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park Chapel, 3941 S. Westnedge, Kalamazoo MI, Pastor Jim Dyke officiating. T-shirts and jeans required. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's honor to the Barry County Animal Shelter. LIVE TO RIDE.....
RIDE TO LIVE......
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST AND WHEN YOUR JOURNEY HAS ENDED YOU CAN SAY,
"WHAT A RIDE"