James A. VanNocker

Jim was born on October 21st, 1939 in Detroit, MI. to Kenneth and Dorothy (Fruin) VanNocker.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years Karen (Alderman), sons John (Robin) and Tom along with 4 grandchildren: Shawn, Marc, Alex and Sam, sister Ginny (Jim) Brady (nieces, Christina, Karin and Susanna), Richard and Mary Lynn Lawton.

During his career Jim worked as a teacher at Lake Orion Schools, as an Engineer at Ford Motor Company, Chrysler and eventually retired from PPG Industries after 22 years as an Engineering Manager. He graduated from Rochester High School, earned a Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and an MBA from Central Michigan University. He was a member of SAE, National Honor Society (MSU), Rochester School Board, River Terrace Church, and the MSU Alumni Association. Upon retirement, Jim and Karen moved from Royal Oak to East Lansing to enjoy the excitement of a college campus along with the benefits of close-knit community.

In particular, he enjoyed traveling to New York and the east coast in search of antiques and special treasures. He loved to attend MSU sporting events, golfing with friends, home-improvement projects and having spirited discussions about politics with friends and family. He enjoyed and cherished many close relationships built upon trust, loyalty and integrity. He will be truly missed as a husband, brother, brother-in-law, father, grandfather and friend.

Visitation will be at 10 AM on September 17 followed by a memorial service at 11 AM, both at the River Terrace Church in East Lansing. In lieu of flowers, the family has respectfully requested donations to the City Rescue Mission of Lansing or the Greater Lansing Food Bank in Jim’s honor and memory