James Lapham, 81, died Saturday from complications following surgery at Bronson Hospital.

He was born Sept. 7, 1935, in Martin Township the son of Dean and Martha (Pike) Lapham. He married Joyce Fuss on May 14, 1955, at Sacred Heart Church in Watson Township. Jim started Lapham Heating and Plumbing in 1962 and continued working until his retirement in 2000.

Jim enjoyed coaching his son’s sports team when he was growing up and had been a member of the Martin School Board. He was also a member of the Otsego Moose Lodge, Otsego Elks and Martin Lions Club. In his spare time Jim enjoyed watching old westerns, following the Detroit Red Wings and U of M Wolverines, bowling on area leagues and travel with his wife.

Surviving are their children, Ronda (Tim) Beeke of Kalamazoo and Ryan (Michelle Bausch) Lapham of Dorr; son-in-law, Bob Boersma; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; siblings, Darlene, Sylvia, Jerry and Paul along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joyce; daughter, Renee Boersma and brothers, Don and Duane.

Friends may visit with Jim’s family starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego, until the time of the funeral at noon with Celebrant,Bill Rose officiating. A private family burial will take place at Hicks Cemetery in Watson Township.

Contributions in memory of Jim may be made to his favorite charity, Wings of Hope Hospice.