Jim Stephens, 80

James A. Stephens, 80, of Three Rivers, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2012. He was born in Fayette, Ala. on Jan. 29, 1932 the son of Barney and Clorene (Kirk) Stephens.

Jim has been a resident of Harwood Lake where he and his wife Barbara made their home since 1983 following his retirement from Inland Steel after 31 years of service. Jim and Barb also operated the Happy Landing Grocery and owned and operated the Fisherman’s Luck for many years.

Mr. Stephens was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite. He truly loved Clemson Tigers football, hunting, fishing, and collecting ducks and knives. His greatest love was for his wife, three children, and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Inez.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory his wife, Barbara, whom he married on Oct. 3, 1951; sons, Joe (Pam) Stephens of Shelby, Ind. and Alan Stephens of Three Rivers; one daughter, Deborah (Craig) Gottschall of Three Rivers; sister, Betty Griffith of Minonk, Ill.; 14 grandchildren, Jeff, Michele, Jodie, Carrie, Jennifer, Casey, Matthew, Valerie, Hillary, James, Stephenie, Laura, Kara and Hollie; 16 great-grandchildren as well as a host of loving, supportive extended family and friends.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, Aug. 18, at the Corey Church of the Nazarene, 11056 Water St., Three Rivers, MI 49093 from 9 a.m. until the time of memorial service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Gary Carr officiating.

Memorials in Jim’s memory may be donated to Three Rivers Health Homecare and Hospice. Envelopes at the Hohner Funeral Home in care of Jim’s arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.hohnerfh.com.