James H. Wood Sr.

1937 - 2022

Wood, James H. Sr. Muskegon Mr. James Horton Wood, Sr., age 84, passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 in Muskegon. He was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on July 14, 1937 to Vern and Naomi (Hixon) Wood. On October 27, 1956, James married the former Darlene Brakel in Traverse City, Michigan and they enjoyed over 65 years of marriage. James was the founder and President of the James Wood Insurance Agency for 28 years prior to his retirement in 2001. He also served as the Muskegon Township Supervisor from 1978-1984. He was a member of the Calvin Fellowship Golf League and Fellowship Church where he enjoyed singing in the choir. James enjoyed camping, wood carving, sailing, fishing, gardening, and wintering at their home in Frostproof, Florida. Most importantly, James loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Darlene; children, Kimberly M. Wood and Jeffrey B. (Dawn) Wood; grandchildren, Mike (Amanda) Wood, Jennifer Wood, Nathan Wood, Owen (Alex) Wood, Julia (Holden) Vanderweele; great granddaughter, Makenna Wood; and brother-in-law, Rodney Boyette. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, James H. Wood, Jr., brother, Steven Wood; and sisters, Judy Mischler and Jean Boyette. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 3:00 PM Monday, January 31, 2022 at Fellowship Church (4200 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon 49442) with Pastor Mike VanKampen officiating. VISITATION will be one hour prior to his service. Burial will be in Sunrise Memorial Gardens. MEMORIALS in memory of James may be directed to the American Cancer Society or Fellowship Church. Arrangements by The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemfh.com