James G. Poel

POEL, James G. "Jim"
Of Kalamazoo, MI Went to be with his Lord Sunday morning, August 16, 2009. Jim was born March 11, 1943 in Kalamazoo the son of Andrew and Gertrude Poortenga Poel who preceded him in death. He was an active member of Grace Christian Reformed Church where he served 22 years on the church council as both Elder and Deacon. He sang in the church choir, as well as the men's chorus; and taught catechism for several years. Jim taught in the Christian school system for 43 years; 39 of them at the Kalamazoo Christian Middle School; coached for 34 years; and was a basketball official for 30 years. Jim loved the Lord; his family; and all sports. On June 18, 1969 he was united in marriage to his loving wife of 40 years, the former Lois DeKruyter who survives. Also surviving are 3 children, Joel Poel, Kara Poel, Marc Jamie Poel; 2 grand-daughters, Alexis and Delainey; brother and sisters, Robert Mary Jo Poel, Joyce Glen Walstra, Marilyn Paul Braman; in-laws, James Barb DeKruyter, Ruth Rick Ekkens; step-mother-in-law, Daisy DeKruyter; and numerous nieces and nephews. A service to celebrate Jim's life will be held 2:00 o'clock Thursday at Grace Christian Reformed Church, 1724 Whites Rd, with Rev. Dr. Harry G. Arnold officiating. Friends may meet the family Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street. Private interment will be in Genesee Prairie Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the KCSA Middle School Capital Campaign Fund or the charity of your choice. "Well done my good and faithful servant." www.langelands.com