Obituary of James Willis Lafler, Jr.

James W. Lafler Jr. 84 Died 3/13/2020 James (Jim) was born on 9/12/1935 in Leonidas MI. He was raised and attended school in Fulton, Mi. Jim resided in Vicksburg for many years before moving to Portage. After attending school, he worked as a lumberjack, cutting down trees and hauling lumbar across the United States. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and catching snapper turtles. Jim was also known for hauling junk and scrap metal and cleaning out apartments and homes for residence throughout the community. Jim married Theresa Weinberg with whom he had five children. Jim has two stepdaughters with his partner of 51 years Beverly Ridenour. He was preceded in death by his parents James Lafler Sr. and, Neva Lafler, sons James Lafler III, and Jack Lafler, brother Tom Lafler, and sister Joann Sleeman. He is survived by Beverly Ridenour, his children Rita (Doug) Diamond, Dale (Junita) Lafler , Scott (Amy) Lafler, Linda (Warner) Connor-Offord, Vickie Muncy, brother Willard (Mazy) Lafler, brother Butch (Robin) Lafler, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Cremation is being handled by Whitley Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at the Word for Life Church of God, 7022 E Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49048, date and time TBA. Officiating the service will be Pastor Jeffery McNally.