James Robert Solem

Williamston

Born July 18, 1927, in Suttons Bay, Michigan to Albion and Emma (Kolarik) Solem. James passed away August 3, 2011 at the age of 84. He served during WWII in the Merchant Marines. James was the President of Barker-Fowler Electric and Governor of the National Electrical Contractors Association. James was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. James and his wife wintered in Bonita Springs, FL for the last 25 years. He collected antiques, such as gas and steam engines and old cars. He enjoyed playing golf. James was a loving family man and his kids and grandkids meant everything to him.

James is survived by his wife of almost 61 years, Georgia Solem; daughter, Constance (Steven) Smith; grandchildren, Ryan James (Sherri) Smith, Courtney Ann (Jerry) Samson; great-grandchildren, Taylor Georgia and Anderson Gilbert; brother, Lee and 3 sisters, Ethel, Marilyn and Caroline. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra; brother, Morris and his parents.

Funeral Services will be held at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E. Grand River Ave, East Lansing at Noon on Monday, August 8, 2011, with Rev. James Wenger officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Dansville. Visitation will be held Sunday, August 7, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of Lansing Stoneleigh Residence, 4052 Legacy Parkway, Ste 200, Lansing, MI 48911 in memory of James Solem. On line condolences may be made at www.gorslineruncimaneastlansing.com.