James Marvin Beukema

James Marvin Beukema, age 83 of Grand Haven, passed away on Friday, January 14, 2022 at Hospice of North Ottawa Community-Heartwood Lodge. Jim was born on April 27, 1938 in Grand Haven, MI to the late Henry and Marion (VanderKolk) Beukema. He married his wife, Barbara, on October 4, 1987 in Grand Haven.

Jim was a lifelong resident of the Grand Haven area and alumni of Hope College and Michigan State University. After settling down on a farmstead in Grand Haven Township in the early 1960's, he decided to pursue his interests in forestry and lumber and began his life's primary occupation of running Ottawa Saw Mill.

Jim also applied his natural business and leadership abilities to a wide range of other endeavors, including serving as Grand Haven Township building inspector, trustee, and supervisor. He belonged to the Grand Haven Lodge #139 of Free and Accepted Masons of Michigan and served several positions as well as Master Mason.

Jim was skilled with any kind of machinery and particularly enjoyed woodworking and escaping out into the forest on his tractor to gather firewood with his many treasured German Shepherd dogs over the years. 

Throughout his life, Jim pursued a variety of interests, mostly centered on outdoor activities such as hunting, farming, golfing, and boating. He also became a proficient private pilot.  After retiring, Jim focused on his love for travel and adventure and toured many corners of the world. 

Jim is survived by his wife of 34 years, Barbara, and her daughter, Susan (Jack), and their son, Jacob Pieters of Lowell, MI; his son, Troy Beukema of Briarcliff Manor, NY; and his daughter, Shannah May Beukema of Bremerton, WA.

Barbara's son, Mike, who was part of Jim's family life for many years, passed away several years ago, as did his first wife, Bonnie (Johnson) Beukema.

Jim’s family would like to express their thanks to Hospice of North Ottawa Community for their extensive assistance in the last part of his life.

In accordance with his wishes, no memorial service will be held. Jim would wish his friends and family remember him in life.

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