James VerDuin

James “Jim” VerDuin, age 87, of Grand Haven died on Saturday, September 2, at Heartwood Lodge. Jim was born November 1, 1929 to John and Leona (Law) VerDuin in Grand Haven. After graduating from Grand Haven High School, he joined the United States Army and served in the 82nd Airborne from 1948 to 1952, stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. During his time in the Army he played football for the US Army Special Forces team. In 1954 he re-enlisted in the United States Air Force and served seven years, completing assignments in Denver, CO, England, San Antonio, TX and Germany. Following his return to Grand Haven in 1966 he was employed by the Grand Haven Board of Light and Power and retired after 23 years of service. An avid golfer, Jim was the Club Champion at Grand Haven Golf Course in 1969 and continued playing golf through his 70’s. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion. Jim was a loyal sports fan and especially enjoyed watching golf and college football. He will be remembered for his jovial personality and keen sense of humor. Survivors include daughter, Peggy Lee (VerDuin) Paberzs of Grand Rapids; former wife, Mickey VerDuin of Spring Lake; sister, Judy Bole of Grand Haven; brother, Russell C. (Nancy) Dillon of Coldwater, MI; 2 grandchildren, Cheryl Paberzs of Springfield, Oregon and Jerrod (Samantha) Paberzs of Bremerton, Washington; 1 great-grandson, Jayden Paberzs and several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, John R. VerDuin and his parents. A Memorial Service for Jim will be held at 2:00pm on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 at Klaassen Family Funeral Home with Duane Smith officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at 1:00pm. Memorial contributions may be given to the Ottawa County Humane Society or Salvation Army.