James Walbert Gentry

James Walbert Gentry, "Wally,a?? born October 31, 1923 in Chilhowie, Virginia peacefully entered into the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ on October 2, 2011. While serving in the United States Marine Corp from 1943-1945, Wally married his bride, Ruth Klap at the Marine Chapel in Quantico, VA. After graduating from Purdue University in 1947, Ruth and Wally moved to Grand Rapids where he began working at Maple Grove Dairy. In 1952, Wally went into business for himself operating Purchase Electric Supply Company. Subsequently, Wally went on to own and operate Diversified Industrial Enterprises businesses until his retirement. Wally and Ruth were members at Berean Baptist Church where he served as a board member. Wally will be remembered by his children and grandchildren, as loving and kind and always available. His children include: Bruce and Carole Gentry, Carol and Dave Fortosis, Ron and Irene Gentry, and Cheri and John Kresge. Grandchildren include: Anna and Eric Wagner, Caroline Gentry; Jim and Lauren, David, and Matthew Fortosis; Hannah and Joe Mancewicz, Nate and Laura Gentry, Esther and Beau Jacoby, Leah and Jessie Willcox; Renee Kresge, Katie and Davey Fore, Julie, Brad, Keith, Scott, Ellen, and Ben Kresge and fourteen great-grandchildren. Wally was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-five years, brothers; William and Ed, and sister Lula.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, 2 PM, at Fairplains Cemetery, Grand Rapids, with Pastor Burland Margesson officiating. His family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookfamilycares.com Contributions in memory of Wally may be made to Mel Trotter Ministries, 225 Commerce, SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Funeral Service October 06, 2011 2:00 PM Fairplains Cemetery 2056 Diamond NE Grand Rapids, MI

Interment October 06, 2011 2:00 PM Fairplains Cemetery 2056 Diamond NE Grand Rapids, MI

Funeral Home Service Cook Funeral & Cremation Services - Grandville Chapel 4235 Prairie St. SW Grandville, MI