James Martin VanKast was born Sept. 4, 1937 to the parents Andrew Williams VanKast and Gertrude Pfleger in Chicago, IL. His mother and father both preceded him in death, as well as three siblings. He served in the Air Force from Oct. 17, 1955 to Oct. 15, 1959 and had an honorable discharge. James gave his life to the Lord 10 years ago and was devoted to the church. He got baptized April 7. 2007 at Berean SDA Church and was ordained deacon on Feb. 1, 2014. James found love with his wife, Deborah VanKast, and married her on May 17, 1999.  He devoted his life to her and his children which he left to cherish his memory. He left behind: five children~Edward VanKast, Trina Abernathy, Jorrie Sanders, Sidea Sanders and his baby girl, Jodi Towns (Brandon); 16 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and a host of family and friends. He will be greatly missed and remembered by all. He left his mark on everyone's  heart that he encountered.