James Benjamin Boomer, Sr., 85, of Empire passed away Monday, July 2, 2018 at his home in Empire.

Jim was born on Thursday, January 19, 1933 to the late John and Myrtle (Huffman) Boomer in Hinsdale, IL. The family moved to Michigan when he was six months old. He served our country as a member of the U. S. Army Airborne Batallion during the Korean War.

For many years, Jim was a driver for Tri-Gas in Traverse City, retiring in 1997. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Empire, enjoyed tinkering in his barn. He enjoyed helping others, loved good food and was always up for a good political discussion.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Christine (Gary) Allen of Wilmington, NC; son James (Sharon) Boomer of Empire; step-son Bobby (Diane) Cain of Honor; grandchildren, Jamie Brown, Kristy Brown., Matt Christiansen, Amy Christiansen; great grandchildren, Anthony, Haley and Lea Brown, Abrianna and Autumn Lamadrid, and Lexus Gaskins, Kyle, Travis and Samantha Christiansen, Kenny, Kim and Bobby Cain, Jr. and several other grandchildren and great grandchildren Also survinging is his brother Robert (Jane) Boomer of Empire. He was preceded in death by his parents and his long time companion Bonnie Lloyd.

A service celebrating Jim's life will take place at 11:00 AM Saturday, July 7, 2018 at First Baptist Church of Empire. (7474 W. Empire Rd., Empire) Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery. Pastor Richard Blaser will officiate. Memorial contributions may be directed to First Baptist Church of Empire, 7474 W. Empire Rd., Empire, MI 49630 or to Munson Hospice, c/o Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation, 1150 Medical Campus Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684.