James Humphrey

On Wednesday, September 7, 2022, James (Jim) Atkinson Humphrey, age 88, passed away at his home in Byron Center, MI. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice and his brother, John. He leaves behind sons John (Cornella) and James (Heather); daughter, Elizabeth; grandchildren James (Allison), Courtney (Nick), Andrew, Abigail, Madyson, and Emma; along with great-granddaughter, Laura.

Jim was born November 19, 1933 in Des Moines, IA to parents James and Emeline Humphrey. After growing up in western Des Moines and graduating from Roosevelt High School, Jim attended Iowa State University where he joined the Beta Theta Pi fraternity and eventually received a BS in industrial engineering. He began his professional career in Anderson, IN, where he also met his wife, Janice. Jim then moved to Chicago to attend Northwestern University’s business school. After receiving his MBA, he charted a course into the world of business, with stops at manufacturers throughout the midwest and northeast.

In 1984, Jim began his career as an entrepreneur, partnering with his brother to buy Nelson Metal Products in Grandville, MI. After the sale of Nelson, Jim and John decided to preserve their partnership by purchasing additional businesses, including Hadley Products and Corvac Composites, both of which are still headquartered in the Grand Rapids area. In business, Jim was a fearless leader and exceptional mentor; his legacy lives on through his employees and friends.

Jim enjoyed golf, sailing with his brother, traveling, and spending time with his family - especially if any of those things could be done in the sunshine. He valued the memorable experiences he shared with his family and friends a great deal, and recounted those tales of adventure to anyone who would listen. He was profoundly curious, and traveled often to new places in order to learn about the lived experiences of different people. He encouraged his family spiritually and emotionally, guiding them whenever possible, and he supported his family’s education at every opportunity. Jim cherished the relationships in his life deeply, and he was always glad to lend an ear or a helping hand to anyone who approached him. Above all, Jim will be remembered for his generosity and compassion; his highest priority was always the well-being and happiness of his family, colleagues, and friends.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, November 19, 2022 at Railside Country Club, 2500 76th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to a charity of your choice. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresbyron.com.