James Gilbert LaBair

James “Jim” G. LaBair, 70, of Stevensville, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at Caretel Inns of Lakeland. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Thursday, April 19, 2018, at 11:00am at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, with Pastor Harris Hoekwater officiating. Friends may visit with the family an hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place the day of the service at 2 PM at Riverview Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph-Lincoln Senior Center or Caring Circle. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Jim was born on August, 7, 1947 in Port Huron, MI to Gilbert “Gib” & Hilda (Minor) LaBair. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1965, and continued his education at Davenport University where he earned his Associates Degree in Traffic Management. Jim proudly served our great country by joining the United States Army from 1968 – 1970; he was an Army Specialist 5th Class. After he returned home, Jim opened LaBair Equipment where he worked as a truck driver for many years. He enjoyed snowmobiling, playing cards, taking numerous trips to Northern Michigan with friends & extended family and traveling to new places. Jim was a member of the Bridgman American Legion Post 331. Jim is survived by his sister, Susan (J. Patrick) O’Neil of St. Joseph; nieces, Heather (Robert) Hollerbach of Stevensville and Stephanie (Randy) Rochefort of Bridgman; 2 great-nieces and 3 great-nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert & Hilda.