December 7, 1929 ~ December 20, 2024
With warm hearts, we remember our beloved Jim, who filled our lives with joy and warmth.
James L. “Jim” Sikkenga, 95, passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 20, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on Dec. 7, 1929, to William and Sarah (Eckhardt) Sikkenga Sr. in Twin Lake, Mich., which was home most of his life.
He graduated from Muskegon High School, class of 1950. He was a proud veteran serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After the war, he met and married Ruth Scheel on Nov. 25, 1955. She preceded him in death on May 10, 1987. Jim found love again, and on May 13, 1989, he married the former Kay Hoover in Muskegon, Mich. Together they shared a beautiful life for 35 years rooted in family, love and laughter.
He was a dedicated employee of Bennett Pump Co., where he worked as a final line assembler for 42 years before retiring in 1991. Jim then went on to dedicate his time for 23 years as a conductor with the Coopersville Railroad, volunteering and sharing his generous spirit with the community. Jim’s zest for life was evident in everything he did. He was an avid bowler, golfer, baseball player and cross-country skier who loved being active and embraced the outdoors. His routine bike rides with his neighbor were a testament to his adventurous spirit. Jim loved his weekly visits to McDonald’s with his buddies, where laughter and stories were always on the menu.
One of his greatest joys was watching his kids and grandchildren shine at their sporting events. His eyes lit up with pride at each game, and he was one of their biggest supporters, always cheering them on. Jim was the kind of person who made everyone feel special the moment they walked into a room. His hugs and kisses were legendary, and his smile could brighten the coldest of days. Jim’s warm embrace, supportive nature and the sunshine he brought into many lives will truly be missed by many.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kay Sikkenga; four children, Sharon Lewis, Suzanne (Bob) Doetsch, Kristi (Ken) Kriger and Doug (Tania) Hoover; six grandchildren, Jalen (Kelly) Hoover, Lucy Doetsch, Nathan (Johannah) Hoover, Amelia Doetsch, Karson (McKenzie) Kriger and Kaitlyn Kriger; five great-grandchildren, Kaylee and Karlee Watt, Ivy and Winston Kriger and Ayden Hoover; sister, Dottie Bishop; numerous nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Ruth (Scheel) Sikkenga; and two brothers, Raymond “Moe” Sikkenga and William Sikkenga Jr. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 4475 Henry St., Norton Shores, MI 49441 with visitation one-hour prior at church. A visitation with the family will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Memorial contributions in Jim’s honor can be directed to St. Mark Lutheran Church or Harbor Hospice. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
