Jerry Don James

Jerry James, 82, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by friends and family. Jerry was born in Kalamazoo on December 20, 1941, to Orland and Rozella James. Except for his time serving in the Army, he remained a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo.

Jerry served in the military from January 29, 1959, until March 21, 1962, or as he liked to say, “three years, one month, and twenty-three days”. Shortly after his discharge, on September 8, 1962, Jerry married Barbara (Elmore) James and they began what would be a sixty-two year-long adventure. The two of them especially enjoyed traveling to far flung places and meeting new people along the way. Jerry truly never knew a stranger. 

Always quick with a joke, Jerry will be remembered by many as the life of the party. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren will remember him as the greatest malted milkshake maker there ever was.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Barbara; his daughters, Kim and Sarah; son-in-law, Rick Jung; grandchildren, Shawn Jung, Brandon Jung (Michelle), Mitchel Fetterer (Nicole), and Jacob Fetterer; and great-grandchildren, Morgan Jung, Peyton Jung, Eli Jung, and Caleb Jung. 

A celebration of life is planned for Sunday, April 14^th, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Blue Stem at Stoatin Brae, 15579 E Augusta Drive, Augusta, MI. Family and friends are welcome.