Jim Lester, 72

James H. Lester, age 72, of Three Rivers, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 2, 2022.

James was born on July 13, 1950 in Tullahoma, Tennessee, the son of Betty Hawkins Lester.

James graduated from Three Rivers High School in 1968, and attended Glen Oaks Community College and Columbia Bible College.

James married Barbara Godshalk on June 12, 1976 in Three Rivers.

James worked in the machine tool business for many years. During his career he worked for W.F. Wells and Sons in Three Rivers, Saw & Specialty in Livonia, and Clausing Industrial in Kalamazoo.

James enjoyed boating, eating out, cooking for various church activities, and grilling hot dogs and brats at Centreville Public Schools athletic events. He also enjoyed attending his nephews’ soccer games and his grandson’s soccer games and cross country meets.

James was a member of Second Reformed Church in Kalamazoo where he sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, served as Vice President of the Consistory, and served as a volunteer church administrator for many years.

Remaining to cherish Jim’s memory are his spouse, Barbara Lester; nephew, Joshua Hodges; grandchildren, Will and Kate Hulin; sister-in-law Carol Yingst-Schremser; special friends; and many adopted nieces, nephews, and family members. A special thank you is extended to the staff at Birch Meadows Senior Care facility who lovingly cared for Jim during his last months.

Preceding Jim in death are his mother, Betty Lester; grandparents Wiley and Lena Hawkins; nephew Matthew Hodges; brother-in-law Richard Schremser.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, September 25, 2022 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Centreville High School football stadium/track, 190 Hogan St., Centreville.

Memorial donations in Jim’s memory may be directed to Birch Meadows Senior Care or to Second Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. Envelopes are available and may be sent to Hohner Funeral Home in care of arrangements.