Harold J. DeYoung Jr.

Harold J. DeYoung Jr., known to many as Jim, died on October 9, 2026, at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. 

He was born on November 18, 1952, in Kalamazoo, the son of Harold and Frances (Olson) DeYoung. Jim was a 1970 graduate of Plainwell High School and later attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College. In 1972, he began working at Parker Hannifin, where he built a long and respected career that spanned 42 years before his retirement. Over those years, he formed many lasting friendships with coworkers and with people throughout the community. 

That same year, 1972, he married Deborah Reichenbach at St. Margaret Catholic Church in Otsego. Together they shared many years of family life and memories. Jim will be remembered as a man of many talents and interests. He loved music, especially the Beatles, and found great joy in playing the guitar and writing songs. He enjoyed golfing and cherished his trip to the Masters in Augusta. He was also a skilled woodworker and builder, someone who could do anything he put his mind to. Those who knew him will also remember his quick wit and his love of practical jokes, qualities that brought laughter to family, friends, and all who spent time with him. 

Surviving are his wife, Deborah; his son, James “Jim” (Melissa) DeYoung of Plainwell; grandchildren, Blake Brown and Caitlin (Sam Morgan) Brown; great-granddaughter, Lorelai Morgan; brothers, Dave DeYoung and Doug (Diane) DeYoung; sister-in-law, Nancy (Jim Barker) Benedict; many nieces and nephews including special nephew, Dave (Lisa) Murdock and his special friend, Don Ahlberg. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jennifer DeYoung; his mother-in-law and father-in-law and by his sister-in-law, Joan. 

According to his wishes cremation has taken place. 

Friends may visit with Jim’s family from 2-4PM, Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the Winkel Funeral Home, with a time of sharing starting at 2 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor Jim’s memory by spending time with those you love, as family was always the most important thing to him. 

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.