Jim Preston

Jim Preston, age 90, of Newaygo (formerly of Coopersville) went home to be with the Lord on Friday, July 31, 2020. Jim was born on July 29,1930 to Lee and Florence (Reynolds) Preston.  He grew up working alongside his father at the family business, Preston's Standard Service, becoming partner and later owner & operator from the 1950's until his retirement in 1985.  Everyone with roots in Coopersville has a story about their experience at Preston's Corner! Jim came from a long line of faithful Detroit Tigers fans. He was not shy about saying "The owner needs to put some money into rebuilding the team!" Jim loved car racing.  He owned a stock car that raced at Berlin Raceway in the 1950's & enjoyed NASCAR right up till the end of his life. Jim also loved the beach. He and his family and friends made many memories at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Florence (Reynolds) Preston; his wife of 64 years, Thelma (Haystead) Preston in 2013; daughter, Cheryl Ann Preston in 1987; and great granddaughter, Sydnee Alcook (Steve & Aimee's daughter) in 1995. He is survived by his children, Pam Preston and her husband, Rick Cram, Karen Lowery & Jim Preston, Jr.; grandchildren,  Aimee (Steve) Ellison, Kellee Alcook, Kate Alcook (significant other Rob Kusowski), Matthew Alcook, Joshua (Lori) Lowery, Hailey Preston & Logan Preston;  great grandchildren, David (Aubrey) Alcook, MacKenzee Ellison, Gabriel Alcook, Jack Alcook & Charlie Alcook, Gavin Kerley, Landri Kerley, Savanna Dunkel, Zaiden Lowery & Kenli Lowery; and two great, great grandchildren, who are identical twin girls, eagerly expected in September by their parents, David & Aubrey Alcook. The family would like to thank Spectrum Health Hospice for their outstanding support.  Andrea, Juanita, and Jai, you are amazing!  Thanks to Hospice, Jim was able to spend the last week of his life at home, surrounded by his entire family.  He even had a beer to celebrate his 90th birthday! Due to COVID restrictions, a private family graveside service will be held later this month.  Contributions to Spectrum Health Hospice, 750 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI  49503 in memory of Jim Preston would be appreciated. An online guestbook may be signed at www.throopfh.com