James K. Towne, age 72 of Newaygo, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 5, 2008 at his home. Jim was born on November 21, 1935 in Newaygo to Leon and Marguerite (Shick) Towne and later married Karen Millard on March 15, 1958 in Newaygo. Jim joined the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany. Jim started work at the Michigan Wheel Corporation as a machinist where he worked for 32 years until his retirement on January 1, 1998. Jim was part of the St. Marks Episcopal Church community, a life member of the Newaygo VFW, Sportsmans Post #4249, he enjoyed his grandchildrens sporting and school events, was a huge U of M football fan, enjoyed fishing and hunting and took great pride and care of his yard where he enjoyed feeding the birds and squirrels. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Karen of Newaygo; his daughters, Sonya (Brad) Sylvester of South Haven; Gwen (Pat) Kitchen of Muskegon; his grandchildren, Jim and Lance Sharp; Sarah Sylvester; his brothers, Ken (Kathy) Towne of Fowlerville; Randy (Marge) Towne of Fremont; 4 nieces and 2 nephews; his brother-in-laws, Jack Millard of Tampa and Robert (Evelyn) Millard of Fremont. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Marguerite Towne and his sister, Sandi Jacob. Funeral Services were held on Friday, February 8, 2008 at the Crandell Funeral Home Fremont Chapel with Rev. Mary Frens presiding with military rites under the auspices of the Newaygo VFW, Sportsmans Post #4249. Interment was in the Newaygo Cemetery. Friends may consider the Newaygo First Responders or St. Marks Episcopal Church Memorial Fund for memorial contributions in memory of Jim. Friends may also send a condolence or share a memory online at www.crandellfh.com. Arrangements by Crandell Funeral Home Fremont Chapel.