James Robert Sproull's Obituary
James (Jim) R. Sproull, 92 was born in Morenci, Michigan on March 18, 1931 to George L. and Eva M. (Myers) Sproull. Following high school graduation (1949) He enlisted in the US Air Force where he served as an aircraft mechanic until honorably discharged in 1953. He married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn J. Emerson in 1951. Post military service, Jim and Marilyn joined in laws Waldo and Alison Emerson as co-owners of Rapids Food Market in Grand Rapids, Ohio, where he was the meat cutter for 18 years.
While in Grand Rapids, Jim was a member of Alva N Sidle Post 232 American Legion, founding member of the Grand Rapids Area Swimming Pool board, Zenobia Shrine Jeepster Unit, and an honorary member of Masonic Lodge 289. He also served the community as a volunteer fireman, later serving as Fire Chief.
After selling the grocery store, the couple wintered in Florida for several years, and returned to Grand Rapids where Jim worked as a millwright for a few summers. Later he spent several summers working for Kenny Bostleman building log homes, before retiring permanently to Palmetto, Florida in 1990. He was an active member of the Piney Point community, and was a member of the Square Club.
Throughout his life Jim's hobbies included restoring a Ford model T, western square dancing, golf, playing cards, home maintenance. He was often called upon by family and friends to solve problems and help make renovations and repairs. As one of his children bragged, "My Dad can fix anything!" He also had the unique ability to read the newspaper, watch television, and take a nap, all at the same time. One of his favorite sayings was, "Now let's not get all excited here."
Jim was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn (2017), his parents, his brother Jacques, sister Jacquelin Ebersole, and nieces Becky, Jane, and Gennifer. Survivors include daughters Susan (Barry) Summers of Catoosa, Oklahoma; Michele Sproull of Marquette Michigan, grandchildren Lindsay (Andrew) Metzger of Longview Texas, Andrew Summers of Catoosa, Oklahoma, and great grandchildren Alexander and Ian Metzger, also of Longview, Texas. He is also survived by his nephew Greg, and nieces Gwynne, Gretchen, and Amy.
In accordance with Jim's wishes there will be no memorial services. He will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, Michigan.
If desired, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the following organizations: Grand Rapids Volunteer Fire Department (17706 Wapakoneta Road, Grand Rapids Ohio 43522), Alva N. Sidle American Legion Post 232 (12580 River Road, Grand Rapids Ohio) or Zenobia Shrine Jeepsters (8048 Broadstone Blvd, Perrysburg Ohio 43551).
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