1929
2016
LANFORD, James Edward, Jr. – of Hoxeyville, Michigan formerly of Flint, age 87, passed away comfortably Saturday, November 26, 2016 at his daughter's residence. Funeral services will be held 12 p.m. Friday, December 2, 2016 at the Brown Funeral Home, 1480 E. Hill Road, Grand Blanc, Michigan with Fr. Andrew Czajkowski officiating. Burial follows at Flint Memorial Park. Visitation 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. James was born in Flint, Michigan on January 8, 1929, the son of the late James and Mary (LaRose) Lanford. James was united in marriage to Irene Koczwara on September 24, 1949 and she preceded him in death on May 8, 1999 after over 49 years of marriage. Mr. Lanford was a skilled tradesman at Buick Motor division, retiring in 1985 after 38-1/2 years of service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and assisting cancer support groups. James was an accomplished musician, playing steel guitar with area bands. He also taught guitar at the Fenton School of Music. Surviving are: sons, James Lanford and wife Sandie of Clio, Dr. Ronald Lanford and wife Dawn of Coldwater; daughters, Sheila Gerics of Shiawassee, and Lori Lanford (Steve Swain) of Mason; daughter-in-law, Penny (James) Schaale of Birch Run; 8 grandchildren, Rick, Anna (Don), Ed (Ashley), Damien (Tara), Staci, David (Brittany), Eric and Ben; great-grandchildren, Brett, Zack, Briana, Alysen, Travis, Jake, Natylea and Emma; sister, Ethel (Charles) Howell of Millington; best friend, Bill Simerson of Burton; and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Lanford was preceded in death by his wife, Irene and by his beloved son, Steve, and infant daughter, Judy; and by his brothers, Charles and Henry Lanford and sister, Elaine Coates. Please share your condolences with the family at www.brownfh.com
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December 23, 2016
Vicky Nelson
Ed was a great friend to my dad. They played music together and were on The Connie Dycus Show together. The last time we saw Ed was when he traveled from Cadillac to Flint to my parents 50th Wedding Anniversary. Ed was his normal loving, crazy self. My dad, Hugh Tinnin, arrived in his heavenly home on November 15, 2011. I am sure dad was there to greet him on his arrival. They are playing music again and singing with the angels. Ed spent is dash so well.
Sincerely,
Vicky Tinnin Nelson
December 15, 2016
Steve Reznicek
Rocky was an original. He was a dear friend, and devoted to my kids as they grew up learning to hunt. Every year we looked forward to that special night before opening day at Rocky's place, and then the next day hunting on his beautiful property. Rocky was so patient with Dan & Helen. As one of his doctors, I can attest to his inner strength and wonderful humor. We all miss him.
December 6, 2016
Rocky and Dr. Baleiko had a special friendship. They both nurtured the Us Too support group in Cadillac. Your family is certainly in my thoughts. Kathy Baleiko
December 6, 2016
Ward & Pat Smith
My wife and I both knew Rocky, (James) from the Cadillac hospital and dearly loved him. He would come in and play a role for whoever was "up front" and just have fun with everyone he dealt with. I always looked forward to exchanging stories with Rocky. He was always helping people in some form. We will really miss him!
Ward and Pat Smith.
Cadillac MI
December 6, 2016
Lisa Dunn
Lori, Sorry for your loss. Rocky was a great man. I was one of his nurses for many years. I would always run into him when he was at cardiac rehab. He always made you laugh. He was a great guy. I will miss him but will always remember him.
December 3, 2016
Renee Fraser
Dearest Lori,
Although I never met your father, I am certain that he will rest in peace secure in the knowledge that he raised such a fine daughter. Your love for him came through the Internet in each post, and I felt it all the way in California. May your memories of him sustain you in your time of grief. Love, Renee Fraser
December 3, 2016
Glenda Robertson
My thoughts & prayers are with all of his family. Both your dad & mother were very dear friends of mine. He will be dearly missed & may he now RIP with his loving wife & son. He was a little character & a wonderful man.
December 2, 2016
Thinking of Rocky's family and praying for all of you today as you celebrate the life he lived. He was a character that will live on in our memories here in Cardiac Rehab at Cadillac Hospital. We will miss him. I love the picture you selected!
Lisa Myers
November 30, 2016
Heather
May your memories bring you peace and comfort. My deepest condolences.
November 29, 2016
May God's loving kindness comfort you and help you through this sad time Psalms 29:11
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