James John Spurgeon

James John Spurgeon, age 56, of Hastings, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on December 13, 2020.

Jim was born on May 16, 1964 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the son of Gerald B. Spurgeon and Beverly A. Spurgeon (Widder). Jim grew up in Milwaukee and attended Bayview High School before moving to Michigan where he continued his education through Gull Lake High School, receiving his diploma in 1983. He went on to serve in the United States Army as a Track Vehicle Repairer, with training at Fort Dix, New Jersey and Japan, as well as being stationed at bases in Hawaii and Georgia until Honorably Discharged in 1989.

Jim had an admirably strong work ethic, took responsibility seriously, and worked hard to provide for his family. After his service, Jim rooted his home in Barry County, working locally at Bliss and Barry County Transit while studying diligently at Kellogg Community College to pursue a career in manufacturing engineering. He earned his Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing Technology from Kellogg Community College in 1991, and had a successful career with Blackmer/PSG in Grand Rapids for 23 years, being hired as a Lab Technician, advancing to CAD Designer, and retiring as Project Manager. In retirement, Jim continued to keep busy with his local handyman services and truck driving, while also completing many of his own home remodeling projects, enjoying the wildlife and nature around him, and spending quality time with his family.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and wildlife, especially when sharing those moments with his children and grandchildren. He knew how to have fun and had a great sense of humor. In his youth, he developed a love for drawing and music that continued throughout his life. Friends and family have so many memories of him to cherish… enjoying bonfires, listening to him play guitar and harmonica, fixing up cars together, working on house projects, experiencing the great outdoors together, family gatherings, children's milestones, and the list goes on.

On any given day, you could often find Jim working on one of his latest projects or hobbies. He loved to keep busy! He was amazingly talented in so many skillsets, and always gave 110% to ensure everything he did was the best it could be. He was phenomenal with carpentry/woodworking, building, home repairs, automobiles, engines, and so much more. He could build or fix anything!

Those who knew Jim well could tell you he was very loyal, honest, generous, respectful, hard-working, and genuine. Jim was the type of guy who is there for you when you need a hand. Through his example, his children learned his values of working hard, giving your best, doing what's right, and taking care of family.

Through the ups and downs of life, hardships made him stronger and appreciate what truly mattered. He deeply loved his family and spending time with them. He looked forward to making even more memories with his children and grandchildren in the years to come. He lived these last several years of his life to the fullest, doing what he enjoyed. He is deeply missed and will be forever loved by his family.

Jim was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bernie Spurgeon, Genevieve Spurgeon, Harold Widder Sr., and Margaret Johnson-Widder.

Jim is survived by his parents, Gerald B. Spurgeon and Beverly A. Spurgeon (Widder) of Antigo, WI; siblings Gerald J. Spurgeon (Conchy) of Hastings, Kim Bissonette (Paul) of Antigo, WI, and Tracy Spurgeon of Oshkosh, WI; children Kristi A. Erb (Jeff) of Hastings, Matthew J. Spurgeon (Lizz) of Middleville, Bryce J. Spurgeon (Becki Linsea) of Hastings, and Nikki Jo Spurgeon (Matt Eldred) of Nashville; grandchildren Colter Eldred, Raelynn Spurgeon, Parker Erb, Elliana Erb, Hayden Erb, Alyssa Spurgeon, Matthew Spurgeon II, Taylor Samayoa and Isabella Samayoa; as well many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

Respecting Jim's wishes, a Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2021 beginning at 11:30 AM with a Service to follow with military honors provided by the American Legion Post 45 at 1:00 PM at Girrbach Funeral Home. Arrangements have been made by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings, Michigan. To leave online condolences, visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net