James Michael Schuring

Jim passed away early Thursday morning, March 18, at home with his family surrounding him with love. He was born on October 13, 1943 in Kalamazoo, to Joyce (Kabbe Nelthorpe) Schuring and Ronald Nelthorpe who both preceded him in death. Jim was also preceded in death by his adoptive father, Garrett Schuring of Portage, sister, Margaret Schuring of Portage, and brother, Timothy Schuring of KY. After graduation from Portage Central High School, Jim entered the United States Navy from 1961-65 where he served aboard the USS Parsons as a radar operator during the Viet Nam conflict. He loved being out on the open sea and visiting the ports of the Southern Pacific. He collected antique guns, raced and built motorcycles, would rather be outdoors than inside, especially during gardening season and loved to travel with Carol, his life partner of 33 years. Jim could fix or build anything, utilizing his mechanical and engineering mind. Before retirement, being very independent, Jim was self-employed in building maintenance. He was the hero in his family's eyes, and was always ready to assist and rescue. He was described as a gentleman by many who knew him. He is survived by Carol Gray of Portage, sons Michael B. Schuring (Tanya) of Kalamazoo and David A Schuring of Portage, brother Paul W. Schuring of Portage, grandson Garrett R. Schuring and former daughter in law Amy Schuring of Gobles, step son Jason Todd and granddaughter Samantha Todd of Grand Rapids, niece Emilie (Schuring) Murphy (Eric) of Portage, mother in law Gloria Korman of Portage, sisters in law Marcia Gray-Ford of Portage and M. Susan Casarez of Albuquerque, NM along with many nieces and nephews who will miss their Uncle Jim. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a veteran's group and/or animal shelter in his memory. Special thanks to the staff at Southern Care Hospice for their excellent care and love for Jim. Cremation will take place and a memorial will be scheduled at a later date and will be listed on the Avink Funeral Home website under Jim's name. Please direct cards and condolences to Carol Gray, PO Box 2183, Portage 49081 or clgray8337@gmail.com.