James E. Rourke

James E. Rourke, age 89, passed away on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at The Villa at Rose City. He had lived in West Branch, MI since 1971, formerly of Madison Heights and Troy, MI. James was born to Sylvester and Gertrude (Powers) Rourke in Owosso, MI on March 11, 1926. He was a member at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus #2022, and the VFW Post #3776. James served in the United States Army as a Corporal during World War II. He worked for the City of Troy and later moved to West Branch where he owned and operated his construction business. The most important things to James were his faith and family.

James is survived by his children, Cathy Zimmerman of West Branch, MI, Randy (Cindy) Rourke of Oscoda, MI, Rick (JoAnne) Rourke of Metamora, MI, and Jim Rourke of Oxford, MI; 15 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren; and brother, Donald Rourke of Flushing, MI. He is preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Gertrude; wife, Betty; daughter, Suzanne; brothers, Larry, Richard, and Sylvester; sisters, Lucille and Mary Agnes; grandchild, Jesse; and great grandchildren, Ty and Ky.

Visitation at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin on Friday, January 1, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:30 p.m. On Saturday January 2, 2016, James will lie in state at St. Joseph Catholic Church in West Branch beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life Mass at 11:00 a.m. Father Patrick Maher will officiate.

Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Joseph Catholic School.

A special thanks to the staff at The Villa at Rose City for the love and care they provided to James.