James "Jim" E. Boal

James E. “Jim” Boal, age 77, passed away at his home in Elkhart with his wife by his side on Thursday, October 5, 2023. Jim was born December 22, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois to the late James A. and Betty (Cary) Boal.  Following his graduation from High School at Shipshewana-Scott, Jim enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served honorably from 1965-1969.  After the service, Jim attended Salisbury State University.  On August 2, 1997, Jim married Diane Schaefer in Elkhart, Indiana.

He is survived by his wife Diane Boal of Elkhart and their children Esin Havier Bernadette Boal of Turkey, Joseph W. Boal and Christina T. Boal, both of Elkhart. And his grandchildren Samantha Jaymes Boal of Edwardsburg, Michigan, Izel Boal and Sibel Boal, both of Turkey. Surviving as well are his siblings Linda (Marty) Salisbury of Elkhart, and Cindy (Jim) Gingerich of Shipshewana, along with his brothers-in-law David Manderfeld and Tracey Ward.  He was preceded in death by his son James Arthur “Jimmy” Boal, and his sisters Trudy Manderfeld and Gail Ward.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 pm Sunday, October 15, 2023, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.  A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am Monday, October 16, 2023, at St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Bristol, Indiana with interment and military honors to follow in Prairie Street Cemetery, Elkhart.

Jim was employed for over 40 years in industrial maintenance with both Atlantis Plastics and Bristol Pipe.  In his spare time, Jim found immense joy in the simple pleasures that surrounded him. Whether he was fishing, feeding the birds that visited his backyard, or spending quality time at the shooting range with his beloved family, Jim's enthusiasm for life was infectious. He also had a great love for all kinds of music and enjoyed spending evenings out on the town dancing with his wife Diane or anyone willing to dance.

Jim never knew a stranger and made new friends wherever he went. His infectious sense of humor could light up a room, and his ability to share a joke on a moment's notice endeared him to everyone around him.

Jim was a longtime member of St. Mary’s of the Annunciation Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. His faith was a guiding force in his life, and his contributions to these organizations reflected his dedication to community, service, and spiritual growth.

Above all, Jim valued his family more than anything else. His role as a loving husband and devoted father brought him the greatest joy. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be part of his life, and the memories created with him will forever be cherished.

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