WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
James L. Abrams, age 96, passed away on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at Bishop Hills in Rockford, MI.
He was born April 28, 1927, a son to Samuel & Mary (Snavely) Abrams in Huntington County, IN.
James resided most of his life in Three Rivers, before moving to Rockford in 2009 to be closer to his daughter.
He was a millwright at the Rocky River paper mill for many years, and he retired from Simplex as a millwright in Constantine.
James loved his Harley motorcycle. Some may remember James having a newspaper article written about him and his friend Bill Russey, doing motorcycle tricks on Michigan Avenue. James was driving the motorcycle and Bill was doing a headstand on the bike. They would take turns doing this. The police officer that pulled them over was stunned to see such a stunt. The judge gladly fined James $25 and Bill $10, back in 1949/1950. James always got a kick out of being caught in this “circus act” even though he was fined. He loved to watch his shows, especially Reality TV and Western’s. James was one of the hardest working men you would meet, working seven days a week for most of his working years. One of the only vacations he ever took was when he was in his late 60’s, after he retired. He took a trip to the Rocky Mountains where he went hiking with family. He was such a hard worker and helped so many people throughout the years, no matter the situation, he never turned anyone down. In his 80’s before moving to Rockford he would make a point to “make his rounds” and visit family. He loved his family and showed his love by helping however he could.
He is survived by two daughters: Deborah (Harley) Lehman of Cedar Springs, MI and Lynne VanDyke of White Pigeon; Son: Victor Abrams of White Pigeon; Many Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren; Stepdaughter: Rebecca Burtis of Maryland; Several Nieces & Nephews.
James was preceded in death by his wife, parents, stepdaughter Mary Bell and son David and nine siblings.
The family will receive family and friends on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at 10:00 to 11:00 AM at Ray Funeral Services. Following the visitation there will be a service at 11:00 at the funeral home. Immediately, after the service interment will occur at Riverside Cemetery in Three Rivers.
Those wishing to make a memorial donation in James’s honor please consider Bishop Hills Assisted Living, 4951 11 Mile Rd NE, Rockford, MI 49341.
Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093, 269-278-1515, has been entrusted with the care of James. Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to Gather and share in James’s memory with stories and memories to support the family at this time.
