James R. "Jim" Trader

James R. “Jim” Trader, 85, of Mishawaka, passed away at South Bend Memorial Hospital on September 25, 2022. Jim was born on September 11, 1937, to the late Charles Harold Trader and Zelda (Ball) Trader. On April 14, 1957, in South Bend, he married his high school sweetheart, Linda, his wife of 65 years.

Jim is survived by his wife Linda, children, James D Trader of Mishawaka, David A. (Jackie) Trader Sr. Osceola, Julie M (Bill) Merchant of Paw Paw, MI, Douglas M. Trader, of Mishawaka. 8 Grandchildren, Christina Trader Tropp (Ryan), Jennifer Trader Sims (Matt), David Trader Jr. (Jamie), Joanna Trader (Ismael), Sara Trader LaMonds (Trent), William J. Merchant, Scott Merchant (Amber), Zach Trader (Pam) and 14 great-grandchildren, Dylin, Riley, Kai, Bailey, Wesley, Leyna, Cooper, Wrigley, Drake, Tyler, Elaina, Arney, Averey, Ethan. Sister-in-law, Norma Trader, Nephew Charles W. Trader (Peg), and Niece Gloria Trader. His brother Charles Edward "Ed" Trader preceded him in death.

Jim graduated from Riley High School in South Bend Indiana in 1955.  He then became a Journeymen Pattern Maker for over 40 years, a proud member of the Osceola United Methodist Church for 48 years, serving faithfully in many capacities.

Throughout his lifetime, Jim was involved with the Boy Scouts of America to include, Scout Master, Trainer, Property Management (of Camp Tamarack, Wood Lake), and a mentor to many.

Over the years Jim enjoyed coin collecting, fishing, camping, and cars. (Especially driving his RED Camaro!)

He was a founding member of Coachmen Auto Club and part of the Pioneer Auto Association.

Visitation will be Monday October 3, 2022, from 11am – 1 pm at Osceola United Methodist Church 431 N Beech Road Osceola, IN 46561. There will be 1 pm service with interment to follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Osceola.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Osceola United Methodist Church Endowment Fund (please indicate endowment fund), or the LaSalle Council Endowment Fund (Boy Scouts of America) 1304 S. Bend Ave. South Bend, IN 46617.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Jim’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.