James "Jim" Vincent Tew

James “Jim” Vincent Tew, 82 of Hopkins, Michigan, passed away Monday, November 28, 2022 following a valiant fight against leukemia.  Born in Battle Creek, Michigan on March 15, 1940, he was the son of the late Shirley Vincent and Opal Lucinda (Varin) Tew.  Jim grew up in Bellevue, Michigan and graduated from Bellevue High School in 1958.  He enjoyed playing all sports, especially baseball, both vocal and instrumental music, and hunting and fishing, which he pursued for many years.  Jim took his basic training in San Antonio, Texas for the Air National Guard and fulfilled his six-year commitment during a more peaceful time.  After the service, he went on to attend Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek and graduated from Western Michigan University in 1966 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.  Primary employment commitments were at Engineering Castings Inc., Marshall, Michigan; Rockwell International, Allegan, Michigan; and Bosch Corporation, St. Joseph, Michigan.  He retired in 2002.  Jim married his true love, Bertha M. Bayha, on December 5, 1964 and together were blessed with three children which they both took great pride in raising.  People always felt comfortable around Jim, probably because he had a wonderful knack of making them feel special and that what they said mattered.  His quick wit and great sense of humor made him fun to be around and making things “fun” and helping others, especially family members, was a special gift he nurtured.  Being creative, Jim created events like the “Tew Olympics” which was enjoyed by family and friends all summer.  Even though he battled leukemia, Jim did all in his power to remain positive and live out his life with love and joy.

Also surviving are his children: James and Wendy Tew of Hopkins, Jennifer and Liam Salisbury of Plainwell, and Jonathan and Debra Tew of Hopkins; grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved so much and was proud of are: James, Jessica (Ridge), Jordan, Megan (Jeff), Kelsey (Joe), Allie, Anthony, Nathan, Joshua, Kamdyn, Graysen, Korrah, Rylynn and Theo; and his sister, Sharon Coltson.

Preceding him in death were a brother, Albert; sister, Ellen; and granddaughter, Emilee.

A Memorial Visitation for Jim will be held on December 27, 2022 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Hopkins United Methodist Hall on Maple Street in Hopkins. The family invites all to come and share your memories and stories of Jim. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

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