James E. Obert, age 79 of Big Rapids, passed away December 17, 2013. He was born February 15, 1934 in Big Rapids, the son of Edgar E. and Blanche T. (Cook) Obert. Jim attended Pleasant View School and Big Rapids High School. He married Joan Anderson in Barryton on October 10, 1958. The couple made their home in Big Rapids where Jim worked for Denham Manufacturing. He then started his own plumbing, heating, electrical and well drilling business. Jim was a general contractor; building several houses in the area. He established a subdivision in Rogers Heights and also farmed for several years. Jim served as a Mecosta County Commissioner for 10 years and was heavily involved in the Tisch Property Tax reform petition drive. He was a member of State Street Church of God in Big Rapids for many years, serving on the church board as trustee and chairman. Most recently Jim had been attending the Stanwood Free Methodist Church. Jim enjoyed his grandkids and would often give them a ride on a tractor or backhoe; after the ride he would take them to Sharon's restaurant for a coffee break. Jim is survived by his wife, Joan Obert of Big Rapids; five children, Edward (Barb) Obert of Big Rapids, Steven (Denise) Obert of Goshen, IN, Michael (Silvia) Obert of Big Rapids, Brenda Obert Pereira of Big Rapids, Kim (Vince) Speese of Morley; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers, Bill (Betty) Obert, Dewitt (Sharon) Obert all of Big Rapids; two sisters, Nina Eldred of New Port News, VA, Hazel (Glen) Marvel of Big Rapids; sister-in-law, Adeline Obert of Big Rapids and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Gerald and Norm Obert and a sister Betty Hanes. Funeral services will take place 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 21, 2013 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pastor Ron White officiating. Interment will be at Ladner Cemetery in Rogers Heights. The family will greet friends at the funeral home on Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Jim's name may be made to the American Cancer Society.