James Lee Archer

James (Jim) Lee Archer, born August 14, 1937 in Goshen, Indiana, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026. Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy; brothers, David (Butchie) and John, and former wife, Janice Scott. Jim is survived by his children, Jodi (Mike) Wszolek, Julie (Denny) Weston, Patrick (Jodi) Piechocki, Matthew (Deb) Piechocki; his sister, Mary Decker; 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. 

In his youth, Jim's parents moved their family from Goshen to the Burton Heights area, where Jim attended, and graduated from South High School. He was proud to be a Trojan.

Jim served in the United States Air Force from 1955 to 1959 and was stationed in Japan as an air traffic radar operator, which provided him with many experiences and lifelong memories that he reminisced about even during the last few years of his life. Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Jim was employed for many years at Wheeler Van, where he worked as a press operator and eventually earned a supervisory position. Following his retirement, he continued to work assorted part time jobs to keep himself busy.

Jim and Nancy enjoyed spending their summers along Michigan's scenic lakeshore, camping, exploring and antiquing, with Ludington becoming a favorite vacation destination. He was an avid pheasant hunter, fisherman and golfer, spending many a weekend on the links with his son and grandson.

Jim was forever proud of his children, and could often be heard complimenting their talents and achievements. He was very close to his sister, Mary, and they continued that close relationship until his passing. Jim was a dedicated husband, a loving father, a devoted brother, and a selfless friend who will be missed by all who knew him. His care team at StoryPoint Senior Community was incredibly kind and compassionate, and the family is very thankful and appreciative for their service and dedication.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, with visitation at 10:00 AM and a service to follow at 11:00 AM. The service will be held at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home at 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, MI, 49508, followed by a luncheon and concluding with a brief graveside service with military honors at Resurrection Cemetery, at 4100 Clyde Park Ave., Wyoming, MI, 49509.