Mr.
James “Jim” Prince, age 70, of New Era was called home to his Heavenly
Father on Thursday, December 11, 2025, after a courageous battle with
cancer. He was born April
15, 1955 in Ann Arbor to Clifford and Ellen (André) Prince. He met his
wife, Ruth (Van Goor), at Calvin College, and they were married for 47
blessed years.
Jim joined the law firm of his father in 1981 and was a partner at
Prince & Monton PLC (formerly Prince, Nicholas, & Burrows LLP)
until his retirement.
Jim was a member of New Era Christian Reformed Church, where he was
deeply involved and considered it a privilege to serve in many different
capacities. Jim was proud to serve his community by being on numerous
boards, including 40 years on the West Michigan Community Mental Health
Board. He was an avid supporter of Christian education and showed his
faith in all that he did. Jim and Ruth enjoyed traveling, especially
camping with their many friends, and most of all, doting on their
grandchildren. He will be greatly missed and remembered as a loving
husband, cherished father and grandfather, and for his compassionate,
loving and funny demeanor.
He is survived by: his wife, Ruth; four children: Mark (Jeanette)
Prince, Daniel (Katie) Prince, Eric (Jessica) Prince and Jason (Alaina)
Prince; six grandchildren: Willa Prince, Cameron and Aiden Prince, and
Penny, Evie and John Prince; siblings Kenneth (Jane) Prince, Laura
(Doug) Fessenden, Michael (Carol) Prince and Andrea (James) Karsten; Van
Goor in-laws; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Ellen, and sister-in-law, Ruth Prince.
A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 18, 2025, at
New Era Christian Reformed Church. Visitation was held from 4-7 p.m.
Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral &
Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, and
one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.
Memorial contributions in memory of Jim may be given to New Era
Christian School or the Harbor Hospice Foundation - Poppen Residence.
Please sign the family's online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services. sytsemafh.com
