James Edward MearsBattle CreekJames Edward Mears, 71, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2017, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 17, 1945, the son of Neil Norton and Charlotte (McJunkin) Norton.Eddy served faithfully in the United States Navy from 1964 to 1967. He was a petty officer on the U.S.S. Saratoga. Ed and Sandy owned and operated Ed Mears Dependable Drywall for many years. Later, he joined the Painters Union Local 312 until his retirement. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles in Battle Creek, and the VFW Post 465.Ed is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years - Sandra (Handyside) Mears; daughters, Robyne Flores, Tina (Bryan Decker) Nussell, Amy (Jason) Roller, and Tracy (Sam) Chaib; sons, James (Marcia) Mears II, Benjiman (Stephaine) Mears, and Thomas Mears; 19 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; brothers, Michael Efermoff, and David Efermoff; sister, Donna Christian all of Grovetown, GA; best friends, Randy "Big Dog" Smith, Virgil Blackstone and his beloved dog, Willy, along with a large host of other loving family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Freddy Mears, and a great-granddaughter, Danika Renee.Ed was a faithful Spartan and NASCAR fan only missing one race in 35 years. He enjoyed watching football, hunting with his grandson, and playing cards with his friends. Always the prankster, Ed loved playing tricks on people and making them laugh. He loved spending time up north at the knot hole with his best friends and family.Visitation will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 W. Dickman Road, on February 1, 2017, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.A funeral service will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 W. Dickman Road, on February 2, 2017, at 3:00 p.m. with Rev Dr. William H Bell of St. Mark Methodist Church officiating.Interment will take place in the Bedford Cemetery.Memorials may be made to: .Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service.   269-788-9800     www.baxterfuneral.com