

Update: Missing retired Rockford music teacher found safe

ROCKFORD, MI -- Police are asking for the public's assistance in locating a 67-year-old man reported missing from the Bostwick Lake area.

James Walter Mollema, 67, was last seen about 12:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 17.

Family said Mollema walked from Belding Road to Sunfish Lake Avenue NE. It's believed he walked to Cannonsburg Road NE and continued west.

Mollema is 6’2” and about 250 pounds. Family said he was last seen wearing a lightweight navy blue jacket, jeans and a navy blue Detroit Tigers hat. He has salt-and-pepper hair and wears glasses.

Family members said Mollema walks frequently, but not at this length. He is a retired band director from Rockford Public Schools and now delivers flowers for Eastern Floral.

A Kent County Sheriff's detective said an organized search is in progress in coordination with a Kent Count Search and Rescue, a volunteer team. Trained dogs also are assisting.

Anyone with information about Mollema's whereabouts is asked to call the Kent County Sheriff's Department at 616-632-6100.

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