James Blades Hollenbeck

James (Jim) Blades Hollenbeck went to be with the Lord and passed away peacefully in his sleep with his beloved daughter, Lyndsey Hollenbeck, by his side on the evening of May 10, 2023 at Rose Arbor Hospice. Jim was born August 8, 1943 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of his beloved parents Edward and Effie Hollenbeck, who preceded him in death.

Jim graduated from Comstock High School and worked in the paper mill factory for years before working at Western Michigan University. James worked in maintenance for 18 years at the university so his daughter, Lyndsey, would be able to go to college and graduate debt free. After retiring from Western Michigan University at 74 years old, Jim enjoyed working outside and in the garage at his lovely home.

Jim gave his entire life to God and was a humble servant of the New Apostolic Church where he was in the ministry for 25 years and remained an active member of the church up until his passing.

Jim was a people person and loved to talk and make people laugh. He was always making jokes and living life every day to the fullest. He loved working with his hands on projects and could always see potential in anything or anyone.

Jim and his beloved sister, Judith Martin, would speak on the phone multiple times a day about everything and nothing all at the same time. All that mattered is that they were able to speak to each other every day. Jim and Judy grew up together and loved each other until the very last day. Their brother and sister bond was unwavering, as was his relationship with his daughter, Lyndsey Hollenbeck.

James is survived by four daughters, Lyndsey Hollenbeck, Jodi Drzick, Amy Ashmore, and Lisa Eernisse; six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; six siblings; and many cousins.

A memorial service will take place Friday, May 19, 2023 at 6:30pm at New Apostolic Church of Portage, 3600 W Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49024.

Memorial donations may be made to Centrica Care Navigators (formerly Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan).

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family visit https://www.langelands.com.