James Paul VanSyckle

James Paul VanSyckle, 76 of Ionia, MI. died peacefully at home, after a long illness, surrounded by his family on December 6, 2025. He was born October 6, 1949 to Howard and Shirley Redman VanSyckle in Greenville, Michigan. In 1988 he married Kathryn Campbell VanSyckle, and she survives.

Also surviving are three children, Tyler (Kelly) VanSyckle, Justin (Haley Perrien) VanSyckle, Anna VanSyckle; grandchildren Jacob and Lilyth VanSyckle. He is also survived by his brothers Tom (Judy) VanSyckle, Bob Vansyckle, Doug(Carrie) VanSyckle and sister-in-law Patti VanSyckle. His twin brother, Gerry VanSyckle preceded him in death as did his parents.

Jim graduated from Greenville High School in 1968. He studied at Montcalm Community College, where he played both basketball and baseball. He was drafted and served his country in Korea as a member of the US Army. He was honorably discharged in 1972 and upon his return, he attended Michigan State University on the G. I. Bill, graduating in 1975.

Thus began a long and illustrious career as a public school teacher and coach, impacting generations of Ionia families. He dedicated 37 years to Ionia as an elementary and middle school teacher and 44 years coaching a variety of sports, primarily basketball, and track and field. He was inducted into the Ionia Public Schools Athletic Hall of Fame in 2021. The following year he received the William B. Lincoln Educator Award. The most important thing about Jim was his ability to build relationships with all kinds of young people as a mentor, teacher and coach. That he was equally admired by his friends and colleagues reflects his commitment to his community. He is remembered fondly for his fiery coaching style, his high expectations and his love for his students and players.

Despite his commitment to his profession, he was a loving and supportive husband and a hands-on, diaper changing, bedtime story reading father. His career crossed over with his family life. His kids were also his students and his players and that he was so beloved makes them proud. Fondest family memories include frequent visits to the UP for hiking and chasing waterfalls, time at the beach, sitting around the campfire and s'mores. Playing games like Yahtzee and euchre were also favorites.

Among his lifelong interests were reading the morning paper, running, biking, travel with his family, and his beloved MSU Spartans. Go Green!

Jim's family wishes to express their thanks and gratitude to the many healthcare providers, including but not limited to Capital Cardiology, The Cancer and Hematology Centers, BAMF, Saranac Primary Care and Hospice of Michigan. Their care and attention not only to Jim but also his family made the difficult days easier to bear.

Arrangements are being made by Lake Funeral Home with visitation on Tuesday, November 16, from 2:00-4:00 pm and 6:00-8:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Ionia where Jim was a long time member. The Rev. Dr. Christopher Dorn will officiate on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Ionia Affiliated Athletic Boosters or Ionia Community Awareness.