James Oliver

James “Jim” Oliver, 91, passed away peacefully at his home in San Pierre, Indiana, on September 13, 2025. He was born December 31, 1933, in Davon, West Virginia, to John and Marjorie (Vance) Oliver. When he was a young child, his family moved to Medaryville, Indiana, where Jim grew up as the oldest of five boys. After graduating from high school, Jim worked as a telegrapher on the Monon Railroad in Monon, Indiana, until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He completed boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and was stationed at Camp Hanford in Washington before serving overseas in Korea. After an honorable discharge, Jim returned home to San Pierre and operated the Texaco service station. In 1960, Jim began what would become a 40-year career with United Parcel Service. Starting as a delivery driver in Crown Point and later Demotte, he eventually transferred to the Tri-City Center in Westville after the San Pierre center closed. Jim had a talent for writing and served as a reporter for the UPS newsletter The Big Idea. Over the years, he was honored several times as “Reporter of the Year” for Indiana UPS centers. He also served as the Tri-Cities Teamsters Local 710 Union Steward, where he helped many local residents get hired at UPS and stood up for union members during contract negotiations and workplace issues. Jim was also known for his pride and joy—a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS convertible. He drove it in countless parades throughout the area, often chauffeuring prom royalty, 4-H members, and parade grand marshals. One of his favorite achievements was driving the grand marshals in Demotte’s “Touch of Dutch” Parade for 40 consecutive years. A proud veteran, Jim was an active member of the Demotte American Legion Post 440. He served on the honor guard, volunteered at bingo nights, and raised hundreds of dollars through raffle ticket sales—all while enjoying the fellowship of his Legion family. Jim’s compassion extended deeply to animals. He supported organizations like the ASPCA and the Humane Society and cared for many pets of his own. His beloved German Shepherds, Duke and Wolf, enjoyed a custom-built “condo” complete with heating and cooling. He faithfully fed stray cats who showed up at his home, eventually taming and ensuring many were spayed and neutered. Indoors, he shared his home with Boots and Poncho, his two cats. Boots, his constant companion for 13 years, never left his lap—and was with him when he passed. Jim also delighted in filling his bird feeders daily, watching the flocks gather outside his window. Known for his friendly and social nature, Jim loved visiting Fingerhut’s Café and Route 10 Bar & Restaurant in North Judson. Whether over breakfast or a Friday fish fry, he could always be found swapping stories and sharing laughs with servers, patrons, and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Rita; his son, Bruce; granddaughter, Katie Oliver; and brothers, Donald, William, Arthur, and Sterling. He is survived by his son, Brian Oliver of San Pierre, IN; granddaughter Deanna (Oliver) Salts of Meta, MO; grandson Wayne Cover of Demotte, IN; granddaughter Misty Oliver of Meta, MO; granddaughter Laura Martin of West Lafayette, IN; granddaughter Samantha (Oliver) Michaud of Bradenton, FL; grandson Bruce Risner of Plymouth, IN; and grandson Donald J. Risner of Culver, IN. He is also lovingly remembered by 19 great-grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be held at All Saints Catholic Church in San Pierre on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM CST, followed by a military graveside service at San Pierre Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the church hall. Father Terrence Bennis will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Starke County Humane Society in North Judson, IN (574-896-5060).

James Oliver

December 31, 1933 - September 13, 2025