James Z. Byers

James Z. Byers, 81, of St. Joseph, passed away Thursday, August 26, 2004 at his home. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church, 475 Green St., Benton Harbor, with Rev. Douglas Petersen officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.Mr. Byers was born January 4, 1923 in Kalamazoo to George & Huldena (Krieger) Byers. He grew up in Hartford, graduating from Hartford High School in 1940. Jim was a retired USN Lieutenant, serving his country during WWII & the Korean War. He was an avid aviator for over sixty-five years and a charter member of the EAA. Jim was a flight instructor for over twenty years at Ross Field in Benton Harbor. Jim?s trumpet playing was enjoyed by area music lovers for over three decades. On April 20, 1977, he married Virginia Glupker Ozeran in Benton Harbor. Jim was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Benton Harbor, St. Joseph Elks #541, and VFW Post 1137 in Benton Harbor. Mr. Byers is survived by his wife of twenty-seven years, Virginia; two sons-Michael (Penny) Byers of Brockton, MA; Scott (Alice) Byers of Lower Burrell, PA; five grandsons; and a great-grand daughter-Sarah Ann Byers. He was preceded in death by his father George Krieger; and his mother & step-father Huldena & Edison Harley.