James Ziegler

A turning point in the Great Depression, the year 1934 saw a welcome decrease in unemployment. At a time when America was attempting to rebuild its’ economy, a bright spot in the lives of Charles and Cornelia (Verduin) Ziegler of Muskegon, Michigan that year included the birth of a son they lovingly named James William, born on October 9, 1934. Jim enjoyed a typical childhood for the times filled with boyhood adventures. Education was an important factor in the Ziegler household as Jim’s parents were both teachers with Muskegon Heights Public Schools. His father additionally served as a coach there for many years.

Jim attended the area schools before graduating from Muskegon Heights High School in 1952. An all-state basketball player, Jim was well liked by many and made friends easily his whole life through. In high school a big part of Jim’s attention was focused on a young lady who captured his heart. The classic story of athlete and cheerleader, Laurel Vanderplow and Jim became sweethearts right from the start. After graduating Jim went on to attend Hope College, earning his teaching degree in 1956. Jim and Laurel began their life together as husband and wife on June 22 that same year. From that point on they have been nearly inseparable. They lived in Muskegon Heights for the next several years and eventually moved to Norton Shores. They remained there over the next 45 years and raised their family. Blessed with three children, Jim was a loving and dedicated father to James Jr., Susan and Tommy. As a family they enjoyed memorable times at their cottage on Clear Lake near Big Rapids each summer. Always dependable, Jim was a rock of security and stability for his family.

Jim was a natural when it came to kids and knew just the right amount of firmness to get their attention. Like his parents before him, he taught in the Muskegon area for 38 years, mainly at Mona Shores Junior High Schools. He also served as the Recreation Director in Norton Shores for 29 years, having taken over the position his father held before he took ill. After retiring, Jim and Laurel moved to Comstock Park, Michigan and have made the Grand Rapids area their home for the last six years. Although he didn’t play any instruments, Jim especially loved country music. Fun-loving and outgoing, kids gravitated toward Jim, and his grandchildren were no exception. Just a big kid himself, Jim enjoyed spending time with them, and loved them dearly. One could even say his hobbies included his grandkids and Disney World. Jim and Laurel both loved Disney World and spent a great deal of time at their place in Florida during their retirement.

People, especially kids, were naturally drawn to Jim Ziegler. He could be counted on by friends and family alike as he dedicated his life to others. Jim’s integrity and commitment will be truly missed.

At the age of 75, James W. Ziegler passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 20, 2010. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Wiseman in 2008. He is survived by his wife, Laurel Vanderplow Ziegler; sons: James Ziegler Jr. and Tommy Dale (Kerri) Ziegler and their family: daughter Taryn, son T.J., stepsons Brett and Andrew. Also surviving are Susan’s sons, Ryan and Casey Wiseman and James’ brothers-in-law Dale and Tom Vanderplow. A Memorial Gathering to celebrate Jim’s life will be held on Sunday, August 29, 2010, 2-4 PM at the Norton Shores Library, 705 Seminole Rd, Muskegon. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to sign Jim’s online guest book or to leave a memory.