James Roman Hook

Jim Hook passed away February 22, 2022. Born in Detroit, raised in South Lyon, he relocated to Kent County in 1981 and to Byron Center, MI in 1986. He is survived by his wife, Sue Ann; daughter, Melinda (Edin) Hook-Kurbegovic; granddaughter, Jessica Rae; and sister, Susan (Michael) Gubert. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Jessica Lee; father, Frederick Hook; and mother, Sophie Hook.

In 1982 he received his A and P Certificate from Lansing Community College. Jim drove truck for 40 years and was a member of the Teamsters Union. He worked primarily on the east side of the state in construction and enjoyed pointing out projects that he had been involved in, such as the Renaissance Center.

In his youth, he enjoyed building and racing fast cars, and enjoyed reminiscing about his corvette, his 1969 Camaro, and his Norton motorcycle.

An avid reader, Jim was never without a book or magazine. His ability to retain information was unmatched, and it was remarkable how many facts he could relay about the world around him. He was always the “interesting” dad among his daughters’ friends, who enjoyed his company as well as his sourdough pancakes, which he made from his own sourdough starter. His respect and love for nature, animals, reading, and coffee was passed along to both his daughters.

Jim was a nature enthusiast and one of his pet projects was restoring his property in Northern Michigan to its natural habitat. His various plantings of native agriculture had begun to bring in new wildlife. He also was knowledgeable about many other things, including mechanics, construction, guns, and gun history. He also enjoyed taking people out on his pontoon at the lake. Although he wasn’t much of a traveler, he greatly enjoyed his trips to St. Thomas, VI, and Alaska.

Jim liked to be helpful to friends and strangers alike if he saw that they needed something he could provide. He volunteered much of his retirement time helping his daughter restore an old Victorian house, which he has left his mark on throughout multiple rooms. There wasn’t much he couldn’t fix and his handiwork was greatly appreciated each time he lent his skills to friends and family. He enjoyed the company of family, old friends and new. He was proud of his family history, remembering many parties enjoyed at his old family farm, and enjoying family pierogi parties in his later years. A true storyteller himself, Jim often relived favorite memories of dogs, family, and good times with a flourish.

His life will be remembered at a Memorial Service 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5, 2022 at Cook Funeral Home - Byron Center Chapel, 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315, with visitation one hour prior. The Nature Conservancy was much admired and supported by Jim if you would like to make a donation in his name. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresbyron.com.