James Vincent Brinker
James Vincent Brinker, age 29, of Lansing, Michigan, died unexpectedly in his sleep October 15, 2023. He was born June 18, 1994 in Lansing to John and Jennette (Guy) Brinker, the youngest of five children and an identical twin. He grew up in Charlotte, MI, and graduated from Charlotte High School in 2012, and later Spring Arbor University in 2016, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science. He worked at Auto Owners Insurance in Lansing as a Predictive Modeler since 2016. He will be missed by all who called him husband, dad, brother, son, uncle, and friend, and will be remembered for his service, thoughtfulness, and love for others.
In 2014 he married Alana Ann Retzer, his high school sweetheart, and they enjoyed a wonderful life together traveling, making a home in their Lansing neighborhood, practicing their Christian faith, and eventually growing their family. Their son, Sage William, was born in March of 2022, and immediately became James’ pride and joy. James was a devoted, enthusiastic, and nurturing parent, taking on many of the responsibilities of raising Sage. He and Alana were excited to welcome their second child, a girl, this December.
James was devoted to his family, immediate and extended, as well as his church family, and was proud to be a member of Lansing Central Free Methodist Church. Volunteering on the board of the church as well as wherever he was needed, James loved to serve and cherished the faith community his church provided.
James’ lifelong favorite hobby was long-distance running, and he especially valued his participation on track and cross-country teams from middle school through college. Fall was his favorite season and best time to go for a run; he so enjoyed the smell and feel of the crisp Autumn air. James also enjoyed cooking and baking for his family and friends; he was known for his ginger molasses Christmas cookies and was working on making the perfect gluten free chocolate chip cookie (and many say he already did!). James also greatly enjoyed films, podcasts, and listening to music.
James is survived by his wife, Alana; son, Sage (19 months old); a daughter due to arrive in December; mother, Jennette (Donald) Stahelin; father, John Brinker; siblings, April (Adam) Gibbs, Kayla Denton, John (Marina) Brinker, and Jared (Janelle) Brinker; mother-in-law, Patricia Retzer; grandmothers, Francine Swisher and Marjorie Morris; brother-in-law, Patrick (Jessica) Retzer; and his beloved nieces and nephews Xander (18), Phoenix (17), Haven (16), Lilith (7), Sailor (3), Ember (1), Lucas (8), Isabella (6), Oliver (5); and several extended family members. He was predeceased by his grandfathers, Ronald Brinker and Bill Morris; and father-in-law, Gerard Retzer.
Friends are encouraged to support James’ family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, October 20, 5-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Saturday, October 21, 10:00 a.m. at Central Free Methodist Church in Lansing with Pastor Joanna DeWolf officiating. The funeral will be webcast from the church’s YouTube page at the following link here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOHjAThthao. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to James’s favorite charities: Partners in Health International or Family and Child Charities of Lansing. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.