Aug. 25, 1915 - June 1, 2009

WAKARUSA -- James E. "Jim" Freed, 93, formerly residing on Vine Street in Elkhart, joined our Lord at 6:15 p.m. Monday in Wakarusa of natural causes.

Jim was born in Elkhart on Aug. 25, 1915, to Minnie and Forest Freed. A lifelong resident of Elkhart, he married Jean L. Gordon on June 4, 1942. Jim was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World War II from 1941 to 1945. He served in several military campaigns in Europe as a sergeant in command of a gunnery crew. He received several awards and citations, including five Bronze Stars.

Upon returning from service, Jim worked at the Elkhart Rubber Works for more than 40 years, until he retired. In retirement, he worked part time for several years for Hoekle's Auto Parts. Jim was an avid fisherman, model railroader and Chicago Cubs fan throughout his life. He always found a way to attend a game at Wrigley Field -- and did so until he was 89 years old. Also in his retirement years, he loved to spend time with family, including his grandchildren. He was a member of a local card-playing group and loved playing a game of Hearts with his friends, including his best friend, Glenn Mast, with whom he played for more than 60 years. He also was a member of First United Methodist Church on Mishawaka Road.

Jim is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jean Freed, who resides in Wakarusa; daughters Phyllis (Wes) Binner of Erhard, Minn., and Barbara (Steven) Stultz of Elkhart; three grandchildren, Andrew Binner of Virginia Beach, Va.; Elizabeth Binner-Noble of Moneta, Va.; and Jesse Lake, U.S.M.C. Ret., of Granger. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters, Maxine Weaver and Margie King.

Friends and family may call from noon until the 2 p.m. Thursday funeral service at First United Methodist Church, 400 W. Mishawaka Road, Elkhart. The Rev. Don Reed will officiate, with burial and military graveside services by the U.S. Army burial detail and DAV Chapter 19 to follow in South Union Cemetery near Nappanee.

Memorials may be given to Miller's Merry Manor , c/o Activities Dept., 300 N. Washington St., Wakarusa, IN 46573. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.billingsfuneralhome.com.