James DeGuzman

James F. DeGuzman, age 76 of Iron River, MI, died Monday night, March 15, 2010 at the Iron County Medical Care Facility, Crystal Falls, MI. Born: July 2, 1933 in Chicago, IL The son of the late Frank DeGuzman and Genevieve (Taetsch) Nino attended the Iron River Schools and graduated from Iron River High School in 1951. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, serving during the Korean Conflict. He was a recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal and the U.N. Service Medal. James married the former Helen East on May 14, 1960 in Iron River, where the couple made their home. They were to have celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary in May. He was employed as a miner by the M.A. Hanna Mining Company for 24 years until closure of the mines. He then was employed by Northpointe, driving bus for over 20 years before his retirement . James and his wife Helen ministered at the Gospel Chapel in Iron River for many years before the chapel closed. Jim was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed listening to gospel music and going to church, attending gun shows and playing baseball. He was a member of the VFW Ottawa Post 3134 and the Gospel Chapel. After the closure of the Gospel Chapel he attended the Community Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by his wife, Helen Daughter, Sharon (Mike) Reeder of Cass City, MI Two granddaughters, Shayna Ward and Mikayla Reeder Great granddaughter, Aurora Madelyn Rose Ward An aunt, cousins, extended family and friends Visitation: Thursday, March 18, 2010 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Friday. March 19, 2010 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron River. Funeral Service: Friday, March 19, 2010 at 1 p.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home with Rev. Tim Hall to officiate. The West Side Veterans will accord Military Rites at the Service. Pallbearers: Mike Reeder, Scott Sebero, Ted Weeks, Tim Hall Jr., Scott Sprague and Charles Nurkkala. Interment: Resthaven Cemetery, Iron River The family suggests memorial contributions to Northstar Health System Foundation for Home Health Care, 1400 West Ice Lake Road, Iron River, MI 49935 Funeral arrangements by the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron River.