James Czanko

James Charles Czanko was welcomed home to his Savior on January 28, passing peacefully in his easy chair while watching a ballgame. After just 45 days apart, Jim is now reunited in heaven with his beloved wife of 68 years, Judy—a reunion filled with joy and promise in the presence of Christ.

Jim lived a life anchored in faith, love, and service. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor, and friend, he poured himself fully into the people God placed in his life. His legacy is one of steadfast faith, integrity, loyalty and a deep investment in others.

Born October 21, 1935, in Melvindale, Michigan, Jim was the son of Hungarian immigrants Louis and Julia (Toth) Czanko. He graduated from Melvindale High School, Eastern Michigan University, and earned his master’s degree from the University of Michigan. A gifted athlete, Jim played football, basketball, and baseball in college—interests that became lifelong avenues for ministry and mentorship.

Jim met Judy after accepting a teaching and coaching position at Fremont High School. After an exciting three-month courtship, they married on December 21, 1957. Together they raised their two children, Lou and Lisa, and built a marriage marked by faithfulness, joy, and unwavering commitment to God and one another.

Teaching, coaching, and mentoring were central to Jim’s calling. He served students and families at Fremont High School, Carson City High School, Muskegon Orchard View High School, Calvin College, and Kentwood Public Schools. Jim founded the City of Kentwood Recreation Department and served as its director for 11 years. He was widely respected for his high expectations, genuine care for students, and belief in their God-given potential.

After retiring from education, Jim continued to lead and serve as a Client Relationship Manager at Pioneer Construction until age 80. Community service remained important to him, including his role as a founding member of the Hospice of Michigan Foundation and service on numerous athletic boards and commissions.

Jim and Judy were faithful members of Brookside Christian Reformed Church for over 50 years. Jim lived out his faith daily, encouraging former students, staying connected to friends, and leading by example in integrity and conviction. He will be fondly remembered for his colorful sport coats, matching ties and pocket squares, plaid pants, signature brush cut, and most of all, for the way he made people feel seen, valued, and encouraged.

Jim’s final years were spent with Judy at Waterford Place in Jenison. The family is deeply grateful to the staff for their compassionate and loving care.

Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife, Judy; parents, and siblings, Louis and Barbara. He is survived by his son, Lou and Nancy Czanko; granddaughter, Lane Czanko (Giuliano); great-grandson, Luca Czanko-Ramirez; daughter, Lisa and Jeff Bartoszek; grandson, Kyle and Melanie Bartoszek; great-granddaughter, Aurelia Bartoszek; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, David and Barbara McCluskey, Dr. James and Martha Bultman, Dr. Cassius Baars and Margo Bultman; nieces, Heather Bultman, Marta Malviya (Raj); nephews, Matt Bultman (Wanda) and Peter (Carrington) Bultman.

Friends are invited to visit with the family on Monday, February 9, from 12:30–1:30 p.m. in the Chapel at Waterford Place, 1725 Port Sheldon Street, Jenison (Door V). A celebration of Jim’s life will follow at 1:30 p.m. Private family interment will be held at Blain Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Waterford Place or Hospice of Michigan.