James F. Van Sumeren

James F. Van Sumeren

Essexville, Michigan

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected community business owner for several years, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the age of 90.

Jim was born September 16, 1935, in Bay City, Michigan, the son of the late Francis and Grace (VanTol) Van Sumeren. A lifelong resident of the Essexville area, he graduated from St. John's High School in 1953. Jim dedicated his career to serving his community as the owner and operator of Van Sumeren Hardware in Hampton Township, where he built lasting friendships and earned the trust of generations of customers.

Faith was central to Jim's life. He was a member of St. Jude’s Thaddeus Parish – St. John's Church in Essexville and a proud 3rd Degree Brother Knight of the Knights of Columbus, Council #2740 in Essexville. Beyond his work and faith, Jim found joy in the outdoors-fishing, hunting in Atlanta, Michigan-and cheering on his beloved Detroit Tigers.

On November 3, 1956, Jim married the love of his life, Belma R. Livingston, who survives him after 68 years of marriage. He is also survived by his children: Cris (Sue) Van Sumeren; Mary Lou (Tom) Navarre; David (Joni) Van Sumeren; and Russ (Tina) Van Sumeren. Jim's legacy lives on through his nine grandchildren: Chasidy Stevens; Chance (Keri) Van Sumeren; Nina Van Sumeren; Nicole (Nick) Van Sumeren; Michael (Mackenzee) Van Sumeren; Benjamin Van Sumeren; Joseph Van Sumeren; Paul Van Sumeren; and Ariel Van Sumeren. He is further survived by many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, who brought him tremendous pride and joy.

Jim was preceded in death by his son, Louis Van Sumeren; his grandson, Branden Van Sumeren; and his brothers, Bill Van Sumeren and Dan (Gail) Van Sumeren.

Per Jim's request, cremation has taken place. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Jude’s Thaddeus Parish – St. John's Church, 614 Pine Street, Essexville, MI 48732. Family and friends will gather at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Rev. T.J. Fleming and Deacon Tim Hartwig will preside. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to donate to the Shriners Hospitals for Children by going to: donate.shrinerschildrens.org or by mail at: Shriners Children's Chicago, 2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707. Final arrangements were entrusted to Ambrose Funeral Home, 1200 Garfield Ave., Bay City, MI 48708. Expressions of sympathy, stories, and photos may be shared on Jim's Tribute Wall of his obituary at ambrosefuneralchapel.com

Jim will be remembered for his dedication to family, faith, and community, and for the kindness and integrity that defined his long life.