James "Rick" Putman Jr's Obituary
James Richard Putman, Jr., 83, of Cement City, MI, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital.
He was born on September 25, 1942, in Jackson, Michigan, to James and Ella (Strowbridge) Putman. Rick married the love of his life, Joanne Ciochon, on August 19, 1967, in Jackson, Michigan. He will be remembered for his ability to make everyone he met feel welcome. Rick was an amazing man with a wonderful, one-of-a-kind, sense of humor. He was a Jackson High School graduate, class of 1960. Rick also proudly served in the Army National Guard and a Reserve of the Army from 1964 – 1970. He enjoyed traveling extensively throughout the United States, and taking cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska and Hawaii; and staying in resorts in the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Ricks’ family took annual trips to Holland, Michigan, as well. Rick enjoyed golfing, bowling and fishing for recreation. Above all, he cherished his time with his family. Rick was a loving husband and a wonderful father. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Rick is survived by his wife of 58 years, Joanne; his sons, James Putman, III and Jeffrey (Melinda) Putman; daughter-in-law, Lisa Putman; grandchildren, James IV, Madison, Emily, Nickolas, Olivia and Eric; and one great grandson, Henry. He is preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Steven Putman.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Tunnels to Towers: https://t2t.org/. Please leave a message of comfort for Rick’s family or sign his guestbook at https://www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.
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