JAMES JONGSMA, age 85, of Portage, passed away Tuesday, September 9, 2014 while surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 19, 1929 in Munster, Indiana. James served as a Military Police Corporal in the Marines. He was retired from Inland Steel as a technician. James was very active in Portage 1st United Methodist Church since 1957. He acted as a lay leader, a 1st evangelism chairman, a member of the men's group and church visitation team and was also a lay speaker. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Sarah "Sue" Jongsma of Portage; son, Kenneth James (Neva) Jongsma of Portage; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Gerrit and Mary Jongsma; brother, Eugene Jongsma and sister, Evelyn (Robert) Tuck.

A funeral service for James will be Friday, September 12, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. at Portage 1st United Methodist Church, 2637 McCool Rd., Portage with Rev. Dennis Ticen officiating. Burial will follow at McCool Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, September 11, 2014 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage, (219) 762-3013 or go online to extend condolences at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.