James Lee "Jim" Apol, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, his 75th birthday, April 20, 2024. Jim had a big heart for people, especially for the homeless. He freely gave of his time and resources and also volunteered at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids for 15 years. He enjoyed his work as a Kent County Sheriff's Deputy at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport for many years and also served in the US Army Reserves. He enjoyed boating and camping and had a special love for his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Dorothy Apol; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Leopoldo Painaga and Adoracion Painaga; sister-in-law, Judy Apol; and nephew, Ben Rustemeyer. Jim will be dearly missed by his wife, Ludy; his son, Christopher Apol; his brother and sisters, John Apol, Carol Rustemeyer, Carla Weidenaar, Connie (Victor) Sztengel, Cheryl (Ivan) Kuipers; Ludy's siblings and their families in the Philippines; as well as many special nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 24, from 5 - 7 pm at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th Street SE, Grand Rapids. The funeral service will take place at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 25, with an hour of visitation prior to the service, at Cutlerville East Christian Reformed Church, 501 68th Street SE, Grand Rapids, with Jim's longtime friend, Chaplain Bob Dennis, officiating. Interment in Blain Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, 2950 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.