James Louis DeVoss

James Louis DeVoss—Jim—passed on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at the age of 80. Jim was born in Grand Rapids to James DeVoss and Dorothy Laura Ball and was the youngest of four children. He lived in Grand Rapids most of his life, but also worked and lived in many countries during his time working for Amway: Hungary, Poland, Romania, Russia, and Ukraine. He shared his generosity, his humor, and his thoughtfulness around the world.  Jim studied at the University of Michigan, graduating with a B.S. Degree in Zoology and Chemistry. Jim attended the United States Air Force’s Officer Training School at Lackland AFB, Texas. Upon graduation, Jim was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. He then attended the Air Force’s Undergraduate Pilot Training Program (UPT) at Randolph AFB, Texas.  Upon earning his Air Force wings, Jim was assigned Combat Crew Training where he trained in the F-105D Thunderchief (Thud) for combat missions over North Vietnam and Northern Laos. Much more about his service can be found on his web site, http://www.thanksformyeverything.org/. After serving our country and being awarded a Purple Heart, he received an M.B.A. from Western Michigan University.  Jim was a devoted, caring, exceptional, amazing husband, father, professional, and patriot, and was a life-long University of Michigan Wolverines fan.  Jim is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Roberta; his daughter Dànielle; his son Jason; Jason’s wife, Cammy, and their two children, Tilden and Calleigh; and his sister, Berniece (Bunny) Swank; sister,-in-law, Sue Lynema.  Jim will be remembered on Saturday, September 28 at Matthysse, Kuiper, DeGraaf (MKD) Kentwood, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, 49508. An open house and celebration of life will be held from 10:00-11:30 am, with a service from 11:30 am-noon, followed by time to gather and share lunch from noon-2:00 pm.