James Perry Piper (1942-2017)

PIPER, PERRY, JAQUA, JENISON

Posted By: Mark Christian
Date: 3/4/2017 at 11:33:34

Obituary from Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, Grand Haven, Michigan.

James Perry Piper, 75, of Spring Lake, MI, passed away unexpectedly on February 11, 2017 at Meijer Heart Center, in Grand Rapids, MI.

Jim was born January 9th, 1942, in Ames, Iowa to Wallace and Bernice (Perry) Piper. He graduated from Ames High School in 1960 and went on to receive his BA from the University of Iowa, and his MA from Michigan State University. Jim served in the US Army, stationed in Korea, during the Vietnam era. Following his Army service, he went on to complete his JD from Wayne State. Upon obtaining his law degree in 1971 he moved to western Michigan to serve as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Muskegon County before relocating to the tri-cities where he practiced law for the next 45 years. He truly loved his work representing his clients.

Jim enjoyed travel, gardening, long walks on the beach of Lake Michigan with his dogs, real estate and stock investment, and most of all his family and friends.

Jim is survived by two sons - Greg (Kirstine) of Arvada, CO and Ted of Dillon, CO; two grandsons - David and Daniel of Arvada, CO; two sisters - Jan Jaqua of Humboldt, IA and Lynn Jenison of Ames, IA; and his two devoted rescue dogs - Rookie and Lady. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Nick Piper.

A memorial service for Jim will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 18, 2017, at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, The VanZantwick Chapel. Friends may meet the family 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Friday, February 17, at The VanZantwick Chapel in Grand Haven. Memorial contributions to the Muskegon Humane Society, 2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442 or the charity of your choice are appreciated.