Jim Stevens, 79

James Lee “Jim” Stevens, age 79, of Mendon, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2018.

Jim was born in Sturgis on December 14, 1938. He graduated from Burr Oak High School and was always ready to tell anyone who would listen about how small his classroom was. Jim joined the Navy in 1956 and later in his life Jim continued his education, earning an Associates Degree from Glen Oaks Community College.

Jim married his soulmate, Lynda R. (Stemm) Stevens on January 12, 1961 and they had recently celebrated their 57th anniversary.

Jim held a few jobs during his long life, as he was a man of many talents. He managed the Texaco station in Mendon, painted houses, worked with the Mendon Police Department, was a reserve officer for St. Joseph County, and retired as a corrections officer from the Florence Crane Women’s Prison. He may have even reupholstered some of your furniture. Jim continued to work after his retirement, first at Auto Zone, then as a bailiff at the St. Joseph County courthouse, and finally as a process server throughout the state up until a few weeks before his passing.

Jim is survived by his wife, Lynda; six children, David (Eloise) VanWormer, Jay (Donna) VanWormer Joseph (Donna) Stevens, Pat Stevens, Mark (Judy) Stevens, Amie (Bryan) Mourey; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, many other family members, and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Llewelyn Stevens and Marietta Stevens, sister Marlene James, and brother David Stevens.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 24th at 2:00 p.m. with service following at 3:00 p.m. at Crossroads Missionary Church in Mendon. Pastor Brian Balassa will be officiating. A Luncheon and fellowship will immediately follow. Memorials may be directed to the family. Condolences may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com