Jim Youngs Life Story

James Orville Youngs died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, July 17th, 2012. Known to his friends simply as "Jim," he was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on February 11th, 1933. Jim's parents, Frances and Martin preceded him in death. He had five brothers and sisters of whom two are still living, Julia and David. Jim was allowed an early graduation from high school in 1951 when he enter the United States Air Force. He served stateside until 1953. He married Polly (Reed) on January 8, 1954 and they celebrated 58 years of marriage before Jim's death. Polly was always the love of Jim's life and she faithfully cared for him as his health failed. Jim mentioned on numerous occasions how blessed he was to have such a devoted and caring wife. Jim earned a degree from Arubrights Business School. His son Reed was born in 1955 followed by Greg in 1957, who preceded Jim in death. Jim and Polly both became active in the Republican Party in 1962 and traveled extensively as party delegates and state party officials. Their most beloved politician over the years is Congressman Fred Upton whose friendship they will always treasure.

Jim loved life, his fellow man, his children and grandchildren, Amy, Megan and James (Jim). He served as the Kalamazoo County Clerk from 1982-1984 and was elected in 1984 as the first Clerk Register when the offices were combined until his retirement in 1996. During his tenure as Clerk Register, it was not uncommon for Jim to get a telephone call in the wee hours of the morning when a couple was in need of marriage certificate for their wedding the following morning. Jim faithfully served his constituents. Jim was active during his retirement spending time with his family, grandchildren and his group of Vicksburg friends whom he so adored along with all of his many other faithful friends. He also spent several winter in Gulf Shores, Alabama. He was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He was always there for his family and friends whenever and wherever he was needed.

Jim's dedication and service to his community is a credit to his charitable kind heart and his love for people. He served as a Kalamazoo Sunrise Rotary Charter Member, Milwood Greenwood PTA Member, Advancement Chairman for the Boy Scouts of America, Fruitbelt Council, Milwood Little League Coach and Board, Lions Organizations with Vicksburg and Galesburg and Schoolcraft serving as President for Vicksburg Charter, Kalamazoo Junior Chamber of Commerce, Treasurer of Schoolcraft Ambulance Service, Schoolcraft Village Trustee, Galesburg Planning Commission, Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners and as a Wakeshma Township Trustee.

The Youngs family welcomes family and friends to a memorial service on Saturday, August 11, 2012 at the Vicksburg High School Auditorium. The service begins at 1:00 pm with a luncheon immediately following ending at 3:30pm. The family asks that in lieu of flowers to please consider a donation to one of the following organizations: Vicksburg School Foundation, Vicksburg Library Museum, Vicksburg Foundation, West Michigan Cancer Center and Galesburg Library & Museum.

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