James L. Schaafsma

SCHAAFSMA, James L. "Jim"
Plainwell Died November 1, 2013 at age 83. Jim was born October 12, 1930 in Grand Rapids, MI to the late Bert and Griselda "Sally" Nykerk Schaafsma. Jim was united in marriage to Sharron Ray on September 26, 1980. He served in the U.S. Army from December of 1951 until honorably discharged in November of 1953. Jim was a member of North Park Reformed Church. He was active locally in sales and marketing for a few trucking companies. Jim and Sharron owned and operated a business near Traverse City. Most recently, Jim was active in City of Plainwell DDA and restoration of Plainwell Paper Mill. Jim is survived by his wife, Sharron Schaafsma; children, Susan Brad Evans, Scott Schaafsma and Mark Brenda Schaafsma; step-children, Cheryl Amjed Ruiter-Khanfer, Jon Judy Ruiter, Jonna Rick Jameson and Eric Marie Ruiter; 17 grandchildren; expecting his 1st great grandchild soon; and Barbara Schaafsma, mother of his children. Jim was preceded in death by a son, Michael Schaafsma. Family will greet friends on Sunday, November 10, 2013 from 4-6 pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th St. A funeral service will take place on Monday, November 11, 2013, 11:00 at North Park Reformed Church, 1316 Barney Rd. Burial will be Thursday, November 14, 2013 in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Those wishing to attend the committal service should arrive at the cemetery Cortege area at 10:45 on the 14th. Memorials may be directed to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission.