Jim Fitzstephens, 72

James Michael “Jim” Fitzstephens, age 72, of Mendon, died Thursday July 15, 2010 at his home.

He was born in Pontiac, Mich., on Dec. 11, 1937, the son of J. Edward and Mary (Phelan) Fitzstephens.

The family moved to Mendon in 1952 where he attended Mendon High School, and for a time resided in Chicago.

He was married to Joyce Schmidt in 1959; they were later divorced.

While residing in Mendon Jim worked at Carl Green’s filling station in Mendon and for Ronningen Research & Development in Vicksburg. Most recently he was a truck driver for Vanguard Industries and Forrest River Paper Company.

He was married to Victoria McMillan on April 1, 1983 in Kalamazoo. She died on Nov. 7, 1984.

Jim is survived by five sons, Michael Fitzstephens (Sandy) of Schoolcraft, Daniel of Mattawan, Timothy of Schoolcraft, Scott of Santa Barbara, Calif., and David of Berrien Springs; a step-daughter, Michelle McMillan of Pennsylvania; eight grandchildren; a brother, Gerald Fitzstephens (Brenda) of Mumfordsville, Ky.; two sisters, Theresa Zmudka of Mendon, and Mary Ellen Cook (Charles) of Marcellus; and by several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by two brothers, Thomas and Patrick.

The family will receive friends from 9-11 a.m. Wednesday July 21, 2010 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home followed by burial in South Portage Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family. An online register is available and condolences may be left for the family at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com