James Nauta
James ‘Jimmer’ Nauta, 75, of Pentwater, passed away on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, after a courageous four-year battle with ALS. The disease may have robbed him of his body, but never his spirit.
Jim married the love of his life, Carol, and they shared 54 wonderful years together. They raised their three children in Lowell and were well known to many in the community. It was rare that Jim and Carol missed any of their kids’ sporting or community events. He will be missed by many in the Lowell community. Upon retirement, Jim took on the task of renovating their cottage in Pentwater to what is today their family home. Still referred to as “the cottage” it would become a hub for family and friends to enjoy throughout the years. Jim was best known for hosting in his “man cave”, it was the place he loved the most. Jim was an avid golfer and shared his love of the game with his wife, children and countless others who were wanting to learn. He was the most patient teacher. One of his favorite events to host was the annual Ryder Cup golf tournament with his sons. It may have been his favorite weekend each year. Often in the summer, Jim could also be found on his tri-toon going down the channel from Pentwater Lake to Lake Michigan inviting anyone who would like to join for a ride.
Jim was well known in the agribusiness community working for both Total Ag Services and Helena Chemical throughout his career. He was a well-beloved leader and mentor to those in the business and continued to track the price of corn and beans until his passing. A daily notification on his phone that would bring a chuckle to Carol every day. He was awarded many times for his professional accomplishments but was very humble about the recognition.
Jim had a gift for people. Everyone was always invited and were made to feel like part of the family when they were around him. In his 1967 Lowell High School yearbook, his pet peeve was “small parties”, he was “the more the merrier” type of guy! He was blessed with some of the best friends throughout the years. All of which showed up this last four years to help and make life as easy as possible for Carol and his family.
Jim and Carol were blessed during his illness with a true angel on earth, Margaret Ewing. She was instrumental in supporting and navigating his ALS journey. She is not just a caregiver but has become a member of our family.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Geraldine Nauta; parents-in-law, Burton and Delores Symon; longtime friend, Charlie Johnson; and Bob Morgan, who was like a son to him.
Jim is survived by his wife, Carol; his twin sons, Tony (Traci) Nauta, Todd (Lisa) Nauta and daughter Angela Gildea. He was a legendary papa to Ella Nauta, Reagan Nauta, Reese and Logan Gildea, and Grace and Josh Sommers; his brothers and sisters, Vern (Gay) Nauta, Nancy (Dan) Gauw, Phil (Lynn) Nauta, Mark (Becky) Nauta, Debbie (Randy) Reed, and Steve (Brenda) Nauta; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Chuck (Liza) Symon, Dave (Debbie) Symon, Laurie Eaton, Karen (Harry) Williams, and Mary Beth (Craig) Meyer.
The Susan Mast ALS Foundation had a significant impact on providing support and services in the care of Jim. The family asks that any contributions made on Jim’s behalf support the ongoing care of those diagnosed with ALS. Contributions can be made at www.susanmastals.org\donation
Cheers to a life well lived! A celebration of Jim’s life will take place, in May, in Pentwater.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.
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