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James Warner

February 22, 1942 - February 7, 2022
Kalamazoo, MI

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Below is the contact information for a florist recommended by the funeral home.

Taylor's Florist and Gifts
215 E. Michigan Ave.
Paw Paw, MI 49079
(269) 657-6256
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Ambati
1830 S. Westnedge
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
(269) 349-4961
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Life Story / Obituary


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James (Jim) John Warner passed away on Monday, February 7, 2022 in Oshtemo, MI at the age of 79. A lifelong resident of South Western Michigan, Jim was born to the late James Warner and Arleta (Turner) Warner in Paw Paw, MI on February 22, 1942. After graduating from Paw Paw High School and Michigan State University, he served in the United States Army as a special assistant to the Provost Marshall General stationed in Vietnam. After being discharged, Jim returned to Paw Paw and worked for his family’s winery, Warner Vineyards, where he acted as President and CEO for over 35 years. An avid Michigan State Spartan fan, Jim held season tickets for many years and always tuned into games that he couldn’t attend in person. Always a lover of dogs, mainly Great Danes, he had a penchant for naming his pets after obscure wine grapes, specifically French American hybrids much to the bemusement of his children’s friends. A frequent moviegoer, Jim enjoyed less crowded afternoon matinees where he could discreetly catch up on his sleep should the cinematic offerings not meet his exacting standards. With a curious mind until the end, Jim was always reading multiple books, only finishing those that he felt worthy of his precious awake time. Jim loved to travel and made frequent trips to visit his children and grandchildren around the globe, making sure to never overstay his welcome. Jim liked to quote Benjamin Franklin that guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days. He is survived by his sons: Todd (Sydney, AUS) and Kirk (St Louis, MO); daughter, Beth (New York, NY); their spouses; five grand-children: Finn Warner, Ava Warner, Ellie Warner, Beatrice Cooke and Oliver Cooke; and three brothers: Bill Warner, Tom Warner, and Pat Warner. There will be a private family memorial at Fort Custer National Cemetery, followed by a celebration at Warner Vineyards this Spring/Summer. Visit Jim's webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories, photos, and sign his guestbook. Betzler & Thompson Life Story Funeral Homes, 60900 M-40, Paw Paw, MI 49079. (269) 657-3870.