James Clarence Canfield Sr., 62, of Dowagiac
Published 5:13 pm Sunday, August 4, 2013
James Clarence Canfield, Sr., 62
Born: Jan. 31, 1951
Died: Aug. 1, 2013
James Clarence Canfield, Sr., 62, Dowagiac, formerly of South Bend, died peacefully Thursday morning, August 1, 2013, in Center for Hospice Care, surrounded by his family.
Jim Canfield
Jim was born January 31, 1951, in Niles, Michigan to Clarence E. and Dorothy (Hath) Canfield, Jr. His parents preceded him in death. He served in the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve.
Jim had an energy that would change the atmosphere around him. He loved his children with all his heart and cherished the memories with them. The love he had for their mother and wife of 35 years never left his heart. He was in love with his girlfriend, Dianne Jackson, who calmed his active mind. An avid sports fan, he loved Notre Dame football. His own athletic ability and physical determination are remembered fondly during his High School years in Galien, Michigan as a Star athlete in Basketball, Football and Baseball. His work ethic went above and beyond the norm and was admired by many. He was the top sales person for five consecutive years during his 25 years at Kreamo Bakery. The sound of opening a can of Coke and Rocky movies will always bring memories of Jim. He had a passion for music which has continued through the lives of his children. He desired to live for Jesus and worship God.
Jim will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by one daughter, Shawn (Landis) Skaggs of Elkhart; three sons, James (Jeanna Rankin) Canfield, Jr. of North Liberty, Troy Canfield of Carbondale, Illinois, and Trent (fiance’ Julia Harris) Canfield of Hilo, Hawaii; four grandchildren, Asa Skaggs, Aria Skaggs, Sailor Canfield and Soleil Canfield; four sisters, Melody (Phil) Alexis of Lansing, Linda (John) Clark of Sebring, Florida, Kim LaBrake of Indianapolis, Pam (Jim) Meadows of Muncie and Valerie (Gary) Birk of Muncie; girlfriend, Dianne J. Jackson of Dowagiac; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will gather Tuesday, August 6, 2013, from 12:00 noon until time of service at 1:00 p.m. in Southgate Church, 3717 South Michigan Street, South Bend. Mr. Canfield’s remains will be laid to rest with military honors in Chapel Hill Cemetery, Osceola.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.
