James "Jim" Bosman

James (Jim) Wesley Bosman, 88, died unexpectedly Sunday afternoon, February 21, 2021 at Holland Hospital with his wife Barb at his side. He was a loving, funny and involved head of a close family and was beloved by all. He leaves behind Barb (Schryer) Bosman, his wife of 37 years, four daughters Terri (Fred) Derheimer, Toni (Ron) Kouw, Cindy (Ken) Casey, Dawn (Rick) Petzak, one son Jeff (Cindy) Bosman, 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter and several nieces and nephews. He was a wonderful and loyal friend to many. Everyone who really knew him has a funny Jim Bosman story or memory to tell. The world has lost a truly rare and remarkable man.

He was a native of Holland Michigan, born to Adrian Bernard and Gertrude (Boone) Bosman on June 4, 1932. On April 25, 1952 he entered married life with Helen Elaine Cady and was promptly drafted into the Army in August of that year. Jim served his country during the Korean War, overseas. He was honorably discharged 21 months later and returned home to his wife and new daughter in Holland as a decorated veteran. He earned the Korean War Service medal with 2 Bronze Campaign Stars, the UN Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal. Jim and Helen were married for 25 years until her death on March 7, 1978. Five years later he married the second love of his life Barb on July 16, 1983.

Jim retired from Parke-Davis after 37 years of employment and spent his remaining 29 years enjoying and embracing life. He and Barb traveled the country in an RV for several years and after he hung those keys up, he enjoyed golfing, reading and spending time with his family and friends. It was important to him to attend as many of his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s events as possible. Bosman family gatherings were a favorite for all with Jim as our venerable patriarch. Family was his passion and it showed in his actions as well as his words. His care, concern and love for all of us was always genuine and steadfast.

He was preceded in death by his father in 1974, mother in 1991, brother Dean Bosman in 2003 and sister Donna Eady in 2010.

A private memorial service with military honors will be held for the family. Friends and extended family members may visit with the family on Thursday, February 25, 2021 from 5 to 7 pm at Dykstra Funeral Home Downtown Holland Chapel, 29 E Ninth St., masks mandatory. Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Ron Kouw Jr., Jay Kaznowski, Patrick Woodward, Jon Woodward, Jacob Bosman, Justin Petzak, Justin Hawkes and Chris Spyke. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.