James R. Sunnerville

James “Jim” Sunnerville passed away Monday, June 29, 2026, at his home in Otsego at the age of 97. 

Jim was born on March 20, 1929, in Grand Rapids, the son of Archie and Evelyn (Jackson) Sunnerville. He graduated from Plainwell High School in 1947. He began working at Kalamazoo Stove Company for a year before attending Western Michigan University where he ran cross-country and graduated in 1952. After graduating he worked as a draftsman at Valley Metal then Richard Pierce before spending several years at Tower, Pinkster & Titus until his retirement in 1991. 

As a younger man Jim enjoyed skiing and snowshoeing as well as hiking and canoeing. Jim’s lifelong passion was growing nuts. He grew a variety of different nuts over the years on his farm and was a member of the Nut and Fruit Growers Association. He was a skilled woodworker who took great pride in crafting and playing mountain dulcimers, along with many other beautiful intricate creations. He enjoyed working on tractors, hobby farming and playing chess both online and at the Otsego Library where he mentored many children. 

In 1949 he married Marilyn Lyons and shared over 15 years and 3 children together. On October 25, 1968, at Otsego Church of God, he married Donna Mottor who survives. 

Also surviving are his children, Diane Soliz of Arkansas, Jeff (Angie) Sunnerville of Arkansas and William (Sally) Sunnerville of Otsego; stepchildren, David (Kim) Kinsey and Kevin (Pamela) Kinsey; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren with another due soon; 2 step-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Jerrilyn Sunnerville and Elaine Wallace along with several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, great-grandson, Daniel Magnusson and brother, Ernest Sunnerville. 

According to his wishes cremation has taken place. 

Friends may visit with Jim’s family starting at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego until the time of the memorial service at 11:00 A.M. with Kevin Kinsey officiating. 

Burial of ashes will take place at Hillside Cemetery at a later time.

Contributions in memory of Jim may be directed to Christian Neighbors. 

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