James Philip "Jim" Runyon

James (Jim) was born October 25, 1949 in Alma, Michigan to Lawrence and Leilah (Hartgerink) Runyon. He was the fifth of nine children.

He graduated from Bronson High School in Bronson, Michigan. He also graduated from Taylor University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry Education, and later a Masters in Education and Masters of Science degree in Computer Science.

Jim taught high school chemistry for 7 years and later retired from Nokia Bell Labs where had a 32 year career.

He married Merrilee Church on June 20th, 1981 at Pleasant Hill Church in Bronson, Michigan and loved her deeply.

Together, they had 4 kids and 4 grandchildren. Jim was a devoted husband and a faithful father who studied his kids, and learned and encouraged each of their unique interests alongside them.

After seeing his sons show an interest in endurance racing, Jim became a dedicated athlete - running several triathlons with his sons and even running the Chicago Marathon.

Jim & Merrilee were faithful members of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL and Jim was actively involved in Reasons to Believe, a science/faith-based organization exploring the connections between science and faith.

James is survived by his faithful wife of 41 years, Merrilee, his daughter Rebecca (Kyle) Moore, his three sons: Jason, Joel, and Justin, and four grandchildren (Naomi, Malachi, Simeon, Miriam). He is also survived by his siblings Norman Runyon, Mary (Gail) Metzger, Stanley (Sharon) Runyon, Betty (Marshall) Metzger, Stephen (Nancy) Runyon, Daniel (Renee) Runyon, and Rosalie (Doug) Currier.

James was preceded in death by his parents Lawrence and Leilah Runyon, his brother Paul Runyon, and sister-in-law Rose Runyon.

Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Jim’s life and service at 1pm on December 2, 2022 at Pleasant Hill Church (886 Pleasant Hill Road, Bronson, Michigan). Visitation will be held prior to the service from 11am to 1pm. Burial will follow the service and guests are invited to share a meal and a memory of Jim afterwards.

Flowers may be sent to Pleasant Hill Church, 886 Pleasant Hill Road, Bronson, Michigan.

Donations or remembrances can be made to Reasons to Believe (https://support.reasons.org/donate-now) or a local church of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared here on Mr. Runyon's website at the Add a Memory link.