James E. Grandy

James E. “Doc” Grandy, 79, of St. Joseph, passed away, Thursday, October 17, 2013 at his home. Known for his beard and resemblance to Abraham Lincoln, Doc had a humerous story for every occasion and lived a life full of service to his community, enjoying family and friends. Celebration of Life Services will be held 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at St. Joseph First United Methodist Church, 2950 Lakeview Ave., St. Joseph, with Rev. Harris Hoekwater officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 5:00 until 8:00 P.M. Tuesday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery, St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph First United Methodist Church or St. Joseph Lions Club. Those wishing to sign Doc’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Doc was born July 2, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan to Edward & Florence (Harvey) Grandy. He had the great privilege to care for numerous patients as a chiropractor, operating James E. Grandy Chiropractic in St. Joseph for 40 years. Shortly after “retirement”, he became a school bus driver for St. Joseph Public Schools, enjoying working with kids before actually retiring in 2011 after 14 years of service. On May 26, 1984, Jim married the former Barbara Bartels in St. Joseph. He was a long-time member of St. Joseph First United Methodist Church and St. Joseph Lions Club where he served in numerous capacities, including president in 1972 and later as deputy district governor, celebrating 43 years of perfect attendance. Jim was also a life member of St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Elks #541 and a member of Michigan Association of Chiropractors. He was an avid cardplayer, enthusiastic fisherman (catching a 20 pounder just this past summer) and enjoyed antique and model cars, planting spring flowers, watching the old westerns, and spending time with his hunting buddies at the Branch Ranch and good friends at Lions Club. Jim is survived by his wife Barbara; four children-Diana L. Grandy of Tampa, FL, James E. (Susan) Grandy, II of Savannah, GA, Charles (Lori) Grandy of Indianapolis, IN, Julia (Nicholas) Butcher of Grand Rapids; four grandchildren-Alexandra & Alannah Grandy, Leah & David Grandy; his sister Jane VanDerveer of Atlanta, GA; and several nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.