Submitted by: Dan Rich
James H. Boehnlein
James H. Boehnlein, 72, of Granger, passed away Wednesday morning, July 26, 2006, in Hospice House, South Bend. Jim was born April 13, 1934, in Mishawaka, a son of the late Francis and Suzanne (Heyde) Boehnlein. He grew up in Mishawaka where he attended St. Bavo Grade School and graduated from Mishawaka High School in 1952.
On November 24, 1955, Jim married Diane Pinegar in St. Bavo Church, Mishawaka. At that time in his life Jim also attended Ball State University and graduated from there in 1956 earning his bachelor's degree. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force for three years and was stationed in Texas and Missouri before returning to Mishawaka.
Jim was employed for over 30 years with the Bendix Corporation in South Bend where he was a contracts administrator. The last five years of his career with Bendix were spent in New Jersey where he was director of contracts. Following retirement, Jim and Diane returned to the area and settled in Granger. They wintered for many years in Florida. Jim was a member of St. Pius X Catholic Church, Knollwood Country Club and the Mishawaka Alumni. He volunteered with the Literacy Council where he taught English. Jim enjoyed golf, tennis, model ship and airplane building, reading and playing bridge.
Jim's surviving family includes his wife of over 50 years, Diane; four children, Cathryn (Bradley) Grayson of Columbus, Indiana, Kelley (Frank) Violi of Zionsville, Indiana, Stephen (Karen) Boehnlein of Richfield, Ohio, and Kimberly (Peter) Rittenhouse of Allentown, Pennsylvania; a sister, Carol (Gene) Elmo of Fairfield Glade, Tennessee; and 12 grandchildren, Erica, Neil and Patrick Grayson, Lauren and Daniel Violi, Stephanie, Ali and Emily Boehnlein, and Ryan, Nick, Michael and Peter Rittenhouse.
Friends may spend time with Jim's family today (Friday) from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. in Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 West Third Street, Mishawaka, where a prayer service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will also be held on Saturday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. in St. Pius X Catholic Church, 52553 Fir Road, Granger. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. in the church, with Rev. William Schooler officiating. Cremation will follow with entombment at a later date in Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka.
Jim's family suggests memorial contributions be made to The Center for Hospice & Palliative Care.
Envelopes will be available in the funeral home and at the church.