James M. Vedders

James Marlin Vedders went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 11, 2025 at the age of 84 years old. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Hattie Vedders. James was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Joanne; daughter, Judi (Dan) VanSolkema; son, Joel (Barb) Vedders; grandchildren Ellie (Seth) Bouwman, Kate VanSolkema, Sara VanSolkema, Krysten VanSolkema, Abby Vedders, and Jack (Molly) Vedders.

Jim graduated from Milaca High School in 1958, held many different jobs in early adulthood in the Pease, MN area, served in the MN National Guard, and then took over his parent’s family farm where he lived 80 years of his life. He served his church and community well as a deacon and elder at Pease Christian Reformed Church and as a school board member at Community Christian School. He will be remembered for his servant heart and Christ-like example. Jim’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Breton Woods Holland Home Nursing Care Facility for the exceptional love and care he received over the last year and a half.

Relatives and friends may visit with the family from 4:30-7 p.m. Friday, January 17, 2025 at Cook Funeral Home, 2067 84th Street SW, Byron Center, MI 49315. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, January 18 at First Byron Center Christian Reformed Church, 8541 Byron Center Ave. SW, MI 49315, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. Pastor Michael TenHaken will be officiating. Burial will take place at Winchester Cemetery in Byron Center, MI. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Community Christian School, 208 East Main Street, Pease, MN 56363. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guestbook online.