James Allan “Jim” Kluz

James Allan Kluz (72) left his earthly home to meet the Lord face to face on March 30, 2025, after a lengthy battle with Early-Onset Alzheimer’s disease.

He will be greatly missed by his beloved wife of 53 years, Pat; children: Rebecca (Ray) Pilkington, Sarah (Chris) Raterink, Tim (Sarah) Kluz, Rachael (Jeff) Matthysse; grandchildren: Vivian (Scott) Kazmer, Abigail (Ethan) Atkins, Brooklynn Kluz, Olivia Kluz and fiancé Ben Kortman, Miya Kluz; great granddaughter, Zarah Kazmer; brother, Robert (Shelley) Kluz; brother-in-law, George (Rosemary) Bushong; sister-in-law, Cynthia Van Gorder; nieces and nephews: Jamie (Michael) Muser, Danielle (John) Lawrence, Donna (Brett) Giles, Evan Bushong; and many cousins.

Jim was born and raised in the Metropolitan Detroit area. He began his faith journey at Berean Baptist Church in Detroit and received Jesus Christ as his Savior at church camp as a young teen. Jim married Pat in 1971 and moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan with his young family to attend Grand Rapids Baptist College in 1974.  He loved God and served Him throughout his life. He loved music and in addition to leading congregational singing in church, he was often seen directing music in his car, in his living room, quietly in his pew and towards the end of life, even in his sleep.

His professional journey was marked by dedication, hard work and leadership at Labeltape, Inc., Laser Alignment, Bosch, Transporter Specialists, Inc., and in retirement, delivering donuts for Idas’s Bakery. In these roles, Jim was always ready to offer guidance or a quick joke to lighten the mood and build relationships.

Jim was a family man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life and family. He was often seen biking on the local trails with his daughters or walking, appreciating the beauty of the earth, while picking up stray golf balls with his dogs. These activities were more than just exercise for him; they were a means to connect with nature and the community he loved. He loved dogs, whose companionship brought him immeasurable joy throughout the years.  The dogs in his neighborhood all knew him for the dog treats that he carried and shared from his pockets on every walk.

Jim was fascinated with details, charting data and activities others might not even notice. His love for small things was a reflection of the order he appreciated in God’s world. He was an avid reader of books, newspaper articles and political cartoons right up to the end of life.  He also enjoyed camping, traveling and spending time with his family most of all.  Those who were fortunate to cross paths with Jim knew him as friendly, dry-witted, hospitable and faith-filled.  His approach to life was one of intention and joy while not taking himself too seriously. 

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at MKD Funeral Home, 2371 Riley St., Hudsonville, with Pastor Dennis Gilbert officiating.  Relatives and friends may visit the family on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.  Burial will take place at Georgetown Township Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rails to Trails (https://www.railstotrails.org) or a mission organization of your choice.