James Mervenne

A man of integrity and sound moral convictions, James Mervenne was a highly respected man by all who knew him. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather whose family was his greatest source of pride and joy. Guided by an unwavering faith, Jim was kindhearted and ever mindful of others with a generous spirit. Jim was a successful businessman who was well respected and trusted by colleagues, customers and competitors alike. All who spent time with Jim enjoyed his ubiquitous spirited conversations. Jim was a good listener who had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

William John and Ruth (Host) Mervenne were pleased to announce the birth of their baby boy on June 25, 1935 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. James Frank was one of two boys and was raised alongside his brother, John. His father was the president of Clipper Belt Company while his mother was a devoted homemaker. As a family, they were members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Jim was a true outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting pheasant and deer and loved trout fishing. He attended Oakleigh Elementary and went on to Catholic Central High School where he played basketball and ran track.

After graduating from high school in 1953, Jim and three friends moved to California. They found work there and remained for over a year. Jim then returned to West Michigan and attended and graduated from Western Michigan University. After graduation, Jim joined the National Guard. It was during this time that Jim was introduced to the woman with whom he would share his best years. Diane Herman and Jim met through a mutual acquaintance who felt they were a perfect match. With a desire to build a life together, they were married on May 7, 1960. The newlyweds welcomed three sons into their hearts; Michael in 1961, Greg in 1963, and Dan in 1965. They raised their boys on the Northwest side of Grand Rapids where they remained for the majority of their married life. Jim and Diane became members of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in 1966, and were both devout in their faith.

In everything he did, Jim’s family was always first and foremost in his life. He and Diane fully supported their boys in school and extracurricular activities. As a family they enjoyed vacations and golf. His family also appreciated Jim’s aspiration to perfect his grilling skills on weekends.

Throughout his life Jim was known for his strong work ethic. Early in his career he worked for Pittsburg Paint and Glass and then for C.H. Burpee, a supplier of industrial glass supplies. In 1967 Jim purchased C.H Burpee, which eventually became Burco Inc., serving the autoglass industry. Jim was an entrepreneurial salesman whose dedication and driven spirit helped elevate the business to where it is today. The Burco Family, as it is known within the company, is truly an expression of his commitment to fostering a warm, supportive work environment.

In his leisure time Jim enjoyed pursuing additional interests. He loved studying history, psychology, politics and reading books by Louis L’Amour. Jim enjoyed a variety of musical genres including jazz, country, and blues. After their boys were grown, he and Diane traveled to many parts of the world and built a home in North Port, Florida. It was here they spent winters golfing and enjoying visits from the friends, kids and grandkids. He and Diane also remained active contributors to In The Image in Grand Rapids. Jim lost his beloved Diane in 2004. Jim savored the moments he spent with his children, grandchildren and friends.

James Mervenne lived a life of purpose rooted in sound moral principles and unwavering convictions. His devotion to his family was unmatched, and he was well respected in his work as well. Jim lived each day to the fullest while offering love abundantly to his family and friends. All who are blessed to know and love him will forever cherish his memory.

Mr. James F. Mervenne, aged 78 of Grand Rapids, passed away on Wednesday morning, April 30, 2014 at Trillium Woods Hospice. He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Diane Mervenne, his brother, John Mervenne and his parents, William and Ruth Mervenne. He is survived by his sons, Mike (Lisa) Mervenne, Dr. Greg (Elisabeth) Mervenne, Dan (Shawn) Mervenne; his grandchildren, Chelsea, Jared, Alex, Morgan, Trevor and Noah; his sister-in-law, Rosemary Ledwidge; nieces, nephews and friends. Jim was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and a friend to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday morning at 10:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Burial in Rosedale Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet his family on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. Contributions in his memory may be made to In the Image or Trillium Woods Hospice. To read more about Jim’s life, to sign his guest book and to leave your own memory of him, visit his web page at www.lifestorynet.com