James Arthur “Jim” Rodgers, 51, of LaPorte, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 15, 2013, after a long, courageous battle with lung and brain cancer.
James Arthur Rodgers was born Sept. 3, 1961, to Bernard Gilbert Rodgers and Rochelle Jean (Garner) Rodgers in Valparaiso, IN.
He was a 1979 graduate of Morgan Township High School. Jim received his bachelor of arts degree from Valparaiso University in 1985 with majors in music and history. Jim was a gifted and accomplished musician and taught children piano and voice lessons for 33 years. He was the organist, pianist and choir director over the last 25 years for various churches in LaPorte. He was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in LaPorte. Jim was the curator of the LaPorte County Historical Society Museum after serving as assistant curator. He was with the museum for a total of 20 years. Jim loved classic cars, history, art and music. Jim was so loved and cherished by his family and friends.
His father, Bernard Gilbert Rodgers, preceded him in death.
He leaves behind his mother, Rochelle (Garner) Rodgers; brother, David (Debra) Rodgers; and sister, Jeanne (Larry) Woods. “Uncle Jim” was a steadfast and wonderful loving example to his nieces and nephews: Kelly (Joey) Ricciardi, April (Ross) Kovanda, Scott (Maressa) Woods, Mandy (Cullen) Rodgers-Gates, Stephanie (Brad) Hallal, and Olivia (fiance, Kevin Hannan) Rodgers. “Great Uncle Jim” will be missed by his great-nieces and great-nephews, whom he adored.
Visitation will be Friday, May 24, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, May 25, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, LaPorte, with a time of visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the LaPorte County Historical Society, 2405 Indiana Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350; or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1000 Michigan Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP, as well as at www.cutlerfuneralhome.com.