James Lewis Steensma, age 85, died in Grand Rapids, Michigan on September 27, 2022. He was a graduate of East High School, Rochester, New York. He was a hardworking Dutchman starting at an early age with a bicycle paper route and then in the family paving/hauling business. He branched out into farming with his son for several years before returning to hauling when establishing Bear Creek Farm.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman and collector of arms, his wit and sense of humor was apparent until the end. He was preceded in death by just four months and 16 days by his wife of 62 years, Judith. He is survived by his son, Andrew (Ann) Steensma, his daughters, Molly Persby, Jennifer (Paul) Steensma Hoag, and Priscilla (Douglas) Higby, eight grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. He is also survived by an older brother, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents (Fred and Jesse Steensma), a brother (Fred Steensma), son-in-law (Bruce Persby) and a great grandson (Dominic Zwiep).

A graveside family service will take place October 28, 2022 at White Haven Memorial Park in Pittsford, New York. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Interim Hospice of Grand Rapids. Service Details. Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event Ongoing Online Event About this event In Loving Memory Of James Steensma December 28, 1936 - September 27, 2022 Look inside to read what others have shared Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book. View Tribute Book