James E. Fox

James E. “Jim” Fox, 81, of Rensselaer, IN passed away at his home on Friday evening, November 7, 2025. Because Jim was not standard protocol, neither shall be his obituary. The man had a mind of his own right until his last moments on this side.

Jim was born in Rensselaer on September 27, 1944 to Kedric Gaius Fox and Nellie Mae (Schanlaub) Fox. He was raised by his aunt and uncle, Ruth and Charlie Bowman, on a farm north of Mt. Ayr.

Jim was a 1962 graduate of Mt. Ayr High School. He married his best friend’s sister, a headstrong woman named Patricia Herre, on December 7, 1968.

Jim was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, having served his country as a jet engine mechanic in the Vietnam War. He served without hesitation or remorse. And to quote Jim, “I would do it all again”.

Many years of farming, riding thousands of miles with Pat on their Harleys, selling and servicing CB radios, woodworking, and creating memories with family and friends followed, as did his beloved daughter, Linda. In 1980, Jim and Pat purchased Brookside Florist and ran it together for many years.

Jim was a diehard Chicago sports fan. The days the Bears or Cubs played you should take cover. It was going to be a celebration or an abrupt channel change, with colorful language guaranteed to follow.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Pat Fox of Rensselaer, and his daughter Linda Shide and her husband, Tim of Rensselaer. He is also survived by his faithful furry companions, Jaspurr the cat and Maggie, his beloved dog.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gaius and Nellie Mae Fox, and his aunt and uncle, Ruth and Charlie Bowman.

In lieu of flowers, grab a cup of coffee or a pop and find a vet to thank for their service.

Private family graveside services with military honors will be held at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Everyone is invited to attend a luncheon at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Rensselaer on Monday, November 17, 2025 beginning at 12 noon.

Steinke Funeral Home is honored to be handling the arrangements. Memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the Fox family at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.