Obituary: James ‘Jim’ Ernest Fuller

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Born in Detroit on October 17, 1939, Jim attended the University of Michigan. He lived for many years in Detroit, then moved to Grand Rapids, where he and his wife raised their family.

Suzanne and Jim moved to Boca Grande in 1994, and last December he and Suzanne celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary amidst family and friends there. Jim was genuinely fulfilled by connecting with people for whom he cared, and there were many. He loved catching up with friends, whether over a cocktail or his various lunch dates, regardless of how much time may have passed since their last meeting.

The University of Michigan was a big part of who Jim was. He was an avid alumnus, a huge Wolverines fan, and maintained a connection with his high school and U of M classmates throughout his lifetime. Lifelong friendships were something Jim treasured. He set an example for the rest of us as far as the importance of friends and family, and his legacy thrives in how special he made every person around him feel.

His loving wife, Suzanne; his siblings, Bill and Joanie; his children, Ted (and wife Jenni), Brooke and Molly; and his grandchildren, Cameron and Payton will miss him greatly, but will strive to carry on Jim’s inherent optimism, his compassion, his integrity and his generosity. A memorial date and location will be announced by the family. Memorial contributions in honor of Jim and his family may be made online to The Arc of Kent County by visiting www.arckent.org/donate.html.