James West, 63

James C. West, age 63, of Colon, passed away Sunday evening, April 28, 2013 at his home.

James was born May 13, 1949, in Colon, a son of Arthur and Nancy (Murphy) West.

James grew up in Colon, graduating from Colon High School with the class of 1967. He continued his education at Michigan State University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in science.

He married Judy Schiefer, and she preceded him in death in 2006.

James had made his home in Davison, where he had been a high school teacher for 37 years, teaching history, government, drafting and woodworking, moving back to Colon in 2008.

He enjoyed fishing, sailing, music, woodworking and especially time spent with his family.

Surviving are three daughters, Lori (David) Kosmerick of Coldwater, Jenny West of Colon and Amanda West of Athens; two stepchildren, Gregg Schiefer of Vassar and Renee Armstrong of Detroit; six grandchildren; his parents, Arthur and Nancy West of Colon; a brother, Patrick (Rolene) West of Colon; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, David West.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at Schipper Funeral Home in Colon.

Funeral services celebrating the life of James C. West will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 2, 2013, at the funeral home, with Pastor John West officiating. Burial will follow at Sherwood Cemetery in Sherwood.

If desired, the family suggests memorials be made in memory of James to either the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or ASPCA, American Society for the Protection of Cruelty to Animals. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.