James “Jim” Philip Boss, age 85, died Monday, May 18, in Albuquerque, N.M.
He was born in Belding on Oct. 16, 1934, to Hugh and Hope Boss, attended Belding High, graduating in the Class of 1952 and went on to Central Michigan University. He married Joyce Ellen (Loper), with whom he shared 65 years.
Jim was a produce dealer and owner for 40 years and then a real estate agent for 13 years. He served on the Michigan Potato Council and as an elder with the RLDS Church. He was active in the Martin Athletic Boosters, Martin Band Boosters and served on the Martin School Board for eight years.
In his retirement he was actively involved with Southwest Canine Corp of Volunteers and the local cribbage club. Jim loved camping and fishing with his boys, cribbage, story-telling, therapy dogs and family. Whether you were born into the Boss family or married into it, you were one of his kids.
James is survived by daughters: JoEllen (Jim) Garner of Cedar Crest, N.M., Jaime (Roger) Commissaris of Clarksville, Jana (Marty) Bowman of Grand Ledge; son, Jon (Cindy) Boss of Vermontville; sister, Colleen Cushway of Big Rapids; six grandchildren; 9nine great-grandchildren; and Indy, his special therapy dog.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in James’ honor to the Diabetes Association.
