James “Jim” Harnish died Monday, Oct. 27, at his home in Martin. He was 84.
He was born on March 11, 1941, in Detroit, the son of Irvin and Margaret (Gillan) Harnish. Jim graduated in 1959 from Manton High School in Manton, Mich.
Jim worked many different jobs. He was a nurse at the state hospital, an EMT taking ambulance and fire calls and was a sheriff in Mesick. Many knew him by his CB handle, Michigan Big Boy when he owned and operated his own semi-truck while driving for various companies over the years.
Jim was an avid NASCAR fan, as well as a devoted reader of Louis L’Amour novels. He also enjoyed going on cruises, creating lasting memories with his family. An animal lover, Jim could be found eating popcorn out of a paper bag or in the kitchen, baking one of his famous cheesecakes.
Jim was a great storyteller and a bit flirtatious. He loved taking care of his yard, sometimes taking the mower a little too close to the river. He enjoyed teasing his family and friends but was always willing to help a neighbor with lawn mowing or snow removal.
Jim married Wyvetta “Joyce” Zwart on Dec. 24, 1981, in Otsego.She survives after 43 years of marriage Also surviving Joyce, and their children: Lori Harnish, Mark (Debbie) Harnish, David (Kelley) Harnish, Stephanie Watkins, and Jason (Amy) Warner; grandchildren Robert (Nikki) Paschal, Amanda (Brad) Labert, Naomi Smith, Bradley Smith, Tami Harnish, Kristi Harnish, Jeffrey (Courtney) Harnish, Benjamin (Delaney) Harnish, Alexandra (Braulio) Martinez, Harold (Kayla) Watkins and Ethan and Brody Warner, along with 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Judith Clark and son-in-law Jeffrey Watkins.
According to his wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of Jim’s life will be announced shortly.
Contributions in memory of Jim may be directed to the Humane Society of West Michigan.
