James 'Jim' Syndergaard

James "Jim" Edward Syndergaard, age 77, of Butler, TN, beloved husband and best friend of Nellie Sue Smith Syndergaard for 55 years, passed away on September 23, 2013. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret Syndergaard; special aunt, Catherine Marders; two brothers: Donald and Stanley Syndergaard; and his only son, Michael Ray Syndergaard. Jim was born in Royal, IA and grew up in Alta, IA. He worked on the family farm and was a big brother to three brothers and two sisters. He joined the Army after graduating from high school and served his country for 21 years, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer. After retiring, Jim moved his family to Butler, TN to be close to his wife's family and made his living as a long haul truck driver. Jim was also a Freemason and a Shriner. Jim was a loving husband, father, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Nellie Syndergaard; his two daughters, Sandra Syndergaard Courtner and Cynthia Syndergaard Higgs; four grandchildren, Matthew Syndergaard, Billy Syndergaard, Brittany Higgs, and Jacob Higgs; two son in laws, James Dean Courtner and Brian Higgs; one brother, Joe Syndergaard; and two sisters, Susan Olsen and Delores Porter; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A Graveside Service with Military Honors conducted by the Johnson County Honor Guard will be held honoring Jim on Thursday, September 26, 2013 at 6:00 pm. at the Butler Cemetery with Rev. Dan Wood and Harvey White officiating. Pallbearers for the service will be Jim Birchfield, Earl Burchette, Kevin Burchette, James Dean Forrester, Larry Stout Jr., Michael Higgs, Scott Higgs, Steve Mushroom' McNeil and Jamie Burchette.. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the following organizations that were close to Jim's heart; St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Disabled American Veterans, and the Shriner's Hospital. They thank God for the gift of his life and the blessing of the time they spent with him. He touched the hearts of many and will be deeply missed. At other times, the family will receive friends at the home, 187 Piercetown Road, Butler, TN. Condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.mountaincityfh.com . The family of James Jim' Edward Syndergaard has entrusted his services to Mountain City Funeral Home, 224 S. Church Street, Mountain City, TN 37683.