James Harte Siemers

Jim Siemers died on 7-11-16 at 87 years old and left a deep, rich story full of love, laughter, and faith. He was born to Roy and Irma Siemers in Evansville, IN surrounded by a large extended family. Their family was the first to move from the hometown when they came to Battle Creek in 1939. During his summer job at Glacier National Park in 1945, he got word that his father had died. His father's life insurance policy enabled him to attend college and influenced his career path.

Jim graduated from Lakeview High School and Michigan State College (now MSU) and married his high school sweetheart, Betty Haines. Recognizing his gift of empathy and desire to help others, he chose to be a life insurance agent. After 2 years at Eglin, FL Air Force Base, he started working for New England Life Insurance Company and continued for 42 years. He and Betty raised 4 children: Russ (Trish) Siemers of Grand Haven, MI, Sally (Doug) Bonnema in Climax, MI, Tom Siemers in Southport, NC, and Jean (Brent) Reid in East Leroy, MI. Their legacy lives on in the lives of grandchildren, Sarah, Sandy, and Bill Bonnema, Chris and Steve Robinson, and nieces Diana (Bob) Wolfe, Judi (Randy) Hall, nephew, David Kent and extended family in Evansville.

Jim valued family, friends, connection with community, and all people. He yearned to be involved in something bigger than himself and was an active member of First Congregational Church for 70 years, a past president and long-time member of the Battle Creek Y Center, and played the trumpet in the Kellogg Community College Band for 10 years. Jim craved learning new things and loved hearing stories from diverse people so he became a leader and participant in many other groups. Maybe you are the recipient of one of his poems or handwritten notes, or his presence on your doorstep with a bouquet or donuts, or a warm handshake or hug. He will be remembered best for his positive attitude and humor, authentic caring for others, and embracing new people and new ideas.
He is preceded in heaven by his parents, his beloved wife of 60 years, Betty, and older brother, Gene.

Visitation at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home on Sunday, July 24th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Memorial services will be officiated by Rev. Tom Ott at the First Congregational Church Monday, July 25th, 2016 at 11:00 am with a luncheon following. A graveside service for family will be held later where military honors will be provided by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church, 145 Capital Ave. N.E, Battle Creek, MI 49017 or The Battle Creek Y Center, 182 Capital Ave. N.E., Battle Creek, MI 49017. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.