Athens

James Michael Bess Sr., 64, passed away on January the 8th, 2012 at his home in Athens MI. Mike was born August 30th, 1947 in Battle Creek MI, graduated from Battle Creek Central High School and attended Kellogg Community College. He was married to Joyce Asher in 1979.        

               Mike enlisted in the United States Marine Corp and served with honor in the Vietman War. He worked both at Michigan Paperboard and Kellogg’s as a printer. Mike also owned "Mikes Place" in the east end of Post and was self employed later in life.

               Mike liked to tinker with cars, was an avid junk collector, loved gardening and the outdoors. He was a member of the VFW in Athens and a huge Nascar fan. Mike also loved people and loved to socialize with everyone, especially his family and grandkids.

               Mike is survived by his mom, Chris Zemke, wife Jocye Bess and his first wife Carlene Wofford. He has a son, James and Tamara Bess Jr and daughter Laura and Steve McAlister. He has two grandsons, James and Collin Bess. He was preceded in his death by his father Ron Zemke, his brother Pat McCallister and a son Christopher.

Military Honors 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 14, 2012 at Spencer Family Funeral Home in Athens with the Athens VFW Post 5319 officiating. Memorials may be directed to the Athens VFW Post 5319. Arrangements by Spencer Family Funeral Home, Athens.  www.spencerfamilyfuneralhome.com