Born March 5th 1937
Went home to the Lord January 12th 2020
Jim was born in Dresden, TN March 5th 1937. His family moved to Lansing Michigan where he was raised with his sister Sara and brother Larry. Jim graduated from Lansing Everett High school in 1955. He served honorably in The United States Army for four years. During his time in the Army he was a heavy vehicle driver, a carbine expert and received a Marksmanship Badge. After his time in the army he met and married Polly Kingsley and they raised their 3 children in Lansing and were married for 52 years. He was a commercial truck driver for over 40 years, he drove coast to coast in every state and even Canada and had a work ethic rarely seen.
He was an avid MSU Spartan fan, he loved watching all sports, college and professional but he especially loved watching his kids play sports. He loved golfing, particularity with his brother and his kids. He was always there to lend an expert tip to anyone who asked. He was a great pool player and loved nothing more than to play with his daughter and nephew.
Jim was much accomplished but his greatest honor was his family. Spending time with family was his greatest pleasure. Jim considered everyone around him whether a neighbor, friend or anyone close to his wife and children to be family. He went out of his way to make sure all felt comfortable and welcome. He had a quick wit and always strived to bring a smile and a laugh to everyone with a story or a joke.
Jim touched many lives; he was humble and generous to a fault. Not an ill word was ever heard from him of anyone. He was a great father and truly loved by so many. His absence from our lives will feel like a hole in our hearts, but we rejoice knowing Heaven has gained a truly remarkable Angel.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Clifford Harold Surber and Nona B (McCain).
Left to cherish his memory is his wife Polly, his sons, John (Sandra) Thwaites, Jr. and Mark (Karen), his daughter Jamie (Linda Gunderman). His Grandchildren John Thwaites III, Megan (Josh) Littlejohn, Briana Surber, Anthony Gunderman, Paige (Alex) Clemons. Great grandchildren Ari James Littlejohn and Temperance Gunderman. His Sister and Brother Sara Moser and Larry (Charlene) Surber and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation for James will be held Saturday, January 18, 2020 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grlansing.com for the Surber family.
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