James loved fishing, camping, bowling and traveling the world. His family was his pride and joy.
He is survived by his loving wife, Charlene "Terry" Van Kirk; his children, Pamela Lowe, Jeffrey (Terri) Van Kirk and Thomas (Rhonda) Van Kirk, step-daughter, Mary (Kevin) Tilbury and a step-son, Michael (Toria) Betson; a sister, Julia (John) Tracey; 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.
James was preceded in death by his parents, along with his first wife, Nila Van Kirk; a sister, Kathryn Van Kirk; a granddaughter, Erica Van Kirk.
A funeral service for James will be held Friday, April 26, 2024, at 12:00 PM, at Lutheran Life Villages, 6701 S. Anthony Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46816. A visitation will occur Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805. A visitation will occur Friday, April 26, 2024 from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 6701 S Anthony Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46816.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lutheran Life Villages 6701 S Anthony Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46816 or The American Cancer Society.