L. James Lemmen Jr. ’76

Lloyd James Lemmen, “Jim,” age 66, went home to be with his Lord August 16, 2021, holding his beloved wife, Darlene’s hand. Together, they fought a courageous battle with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma for nearly five years.

Born in Ann Arbor, MI to Dr. Lloyd and Ione Lemmen, who preceded him in death, it became obvious Jim was brilliant. At a young age, he read and remembered the entire encyclopedia in his bedroom. Jim graduated from Mona Shores High School, Hope College Summa Cum Laude, and The University of Michigan Medical School with Distinction. He did a surgical internship at The University of Michigan and a neurosurgical residency at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. Deciding he preferred family practice medicine, he completed a three-year residency at E. W. Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, where he met and married Jamie Welch.

He was a popular family physician at Norton Family Practice in Norton Shores, Michigan for eleven years. Next, Jim entered The University of Michigan Law School for his law degree, earning the Health Law Award. While attending law school, he was a part-time physician at the Northside Medical Center in North Muskegon. He then joined the Williams Hughes law firm in Muskegon, specializing in research, writing and review of medical records. Jim moved to Montrose, Colorado with Jamie for some years until their marriage ended. He was licensed to practice medicine and law in Michigan and Colorado. Jim commuted between Colorado and Michigan monthly to visit family, practice medicine at Northside and provide consultation with the Williams Hughes law firm.

In 2007, Jim returned to full-time residency in Fruitport, Michigan. He met Darlene, fell in love and they married, enjoying many happy years. Jim retired from Northside and Williams Hughes. Shortly there after, he was diagnosed with cancer. Jim was often described as “the most intelligent man I know,” yet always quiet, unassuming, wise, kind, nonjudgemental, focused, punctual, methodical, helpful, a loyal friend and a wonderful husband, brother, son and uncle.

He loved life, Darlene, his family, music, nature, his dogs, gardening, dancing, exploring, driving, reading, learning, and “staying in his own lane, under the radar.” He loved taking the road less traveled, and filled in his mental map while exploring. He was never lost. He was quick to forgive and often helped others with brief, encouraging sentences. He was a consummate recycler, a minimalist. He pursued knowledge everyday and had an incredible memory. He kept his sense of humor and never complained throughout his cancer battle, which he fought to the end. He was loved and revered by many. All who knew him regret his loss. Jim made the world a better place.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Darlene DeHudy, sisters and brothers-in-law, Dr. Kathee Lemmen (Neil), Mimi Brink (Roger), Lauri Atkinson (Denny), Jim DeHudy (Gail), Tom DeHudy (Denise), nieces and nephews: Matthew (Kathy), Kristin (predeceased; great nephews Braden and Austin), Anikka, Cameron, Jessica (An and great niece Avery), Andrew, Melissa, Ashley (Owen, great nephews Eli and Otto), Phillip, and Jonas. Plus, many loving German relatives, and countless loving friends.

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