Obituary of Dr. James Kiess

Dr. James David Kiess, 86, of Palmetto, Florida, passed away on Thursday, April 29, 2021, at Tidewell Hospice House in Bradenton , Florida He was born on August 25, 1934 in Hillsdale, Michigan to the late Kenneth and Gladys(Johnson) Kiess. He graduated from Asheville School in N.C., class of ‘52. On March 2, 1955 Jim enlisted into the United States Army and proudly served his country as a cryptographer, receiving his honorable discharge on February 27, 1957. Following his service, he returned to civilian life where he completed his medical degree at University of Michigan with an M.D. , and practiced ophthalmology in Battle Creek. On December 24, 1981 he married the former Ingrid Olsen in Stuart, Florida. This couple has remained inseparable for over 40 years. Together they have ministered to countless thousands as missionaries and later he served as a hospital chaplain for over 20 years. He enjoyed golf, model shipbuilding, cruising, teaching, leading Bible Studies, and playing the ukulele. James is survived by his wife, Ingrid Kiess of Palmetto, Florida; children, Thomas (Lori) Kiess of E. Leroy, Michigan, Stephen Kiess of Kilby Island, N.C.; Suzanne (John) Long of Jackson, Michigan; step-children, Angela (Mike)Shook of Hudson, Florida; Andrea (Jason) Force of Battle Creek, Michigan; Eric (Michelle) Campbell of Eastpointe, Michigan; fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. In keeping with his wishes cremation has taken place and he will be laid to rest at a private ceremony at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan with full Military Honors. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.