James "Pops" Ronning of Albion, Michigan (formerly of Battle Creek), age 80 passed away on
June 24, 2023. He was born the only child of Walter and Doris (Smith) Ronning on November 3, 1942 in
Battle Creek, Michigan. James spent his childhood in the Battle Creek area. After Graduating from
Springfield High School James served in the U.S. Army before joining the National Guard in 1962. After
serving in Salem, Oregon James returned to the Midwest and began work as a mechanic.
James found peace in fishing and the outdoors. He also found passion in stock car races, where
he had the opportunity as a young man to race, be a flagman, and later enjoy them with his son. James
had a talent for woodworking, were he would sell his wares at flea markets in the local area. He was well
known for his extensive movie collection and his film knowledge. Pops also had a sense of humor that
would drive you crazy while still showing you all the love he had. Everything he would do, he did to
share the joys of life with his friends and family. To James, being independent and strong-willed help
define how he lived and how he loved.
James is survived by his loving children Dorcie (Charlie) Daniels, Brad (Maridale) Ronning, Nicole
(Jonathan) Ronning, Sam (Bobbi) Vosburgh, Alexander (Nicholas) Daniels and his ex-wife Janet Ronning.
He also leaves behind 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, with another expected in the fall.
James was preceded in death by both his parents and his wife Jacklen Ronning.
The family would like to thank the medical staff at Pipp Hospital in Plainwell, the staff at Rose
Arbor in Kalamazoo, and the staff and residents at Maple Grove Apartments in Albion for the love and
support shown in the last few months.
In lieu of a funeral the family will be hosting a celebration of life party to be held at a later date.